The Impact of Diabetes mellitus (DM) on Oral Health

Abstract

Background: Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from diabetes mellitus (DM), a global health crisis. Patients with diabetes are more likely to experience dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral infections, among other oral health problems. In addition to lowering quality of life, these dental issues increase the total health burden for diabetics. There is still little data on how diabetes management affects oral health outcomes, despite the established links between diabetes and dental health.

Aim: This study aims to assess the oral health status of individuals with (DM) and examine the relationship between glycemic control (HbA1c levels) and oral health conditions, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral infections, in a clinical setting.

Methods: From March 2023 to March 2024, a cross-sectional study was carried out at Sadar Hospital in Hajipur, Bihar. 115 individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were enrolled in the study. A licensed dentist conducted oral health examinations to examine mouth infections, periodontal disease, and dental caries. The HbA1c values of the subjects were used to calculate their glycemic control, and information about their demographics, length of diabetes, and dental hygiene habits was gathered. SPSS version 23.0 was used to conduct the statistical analysis.

Results: The results indicated that 68.7% of participants had dental caries, 53.0% had periodontal disease, and 39.1% exhibited oral infections. A significant positive correlation was found between the duration of diabetes and the incidence of these oral health issues (p < 0.05). Additionally, participants with poorly controlled diabetes (HbA1c ? 7%) exhibited significantly higher rates of periodontal disease and oral infections compared to those with controlled diabetes (HbA1c < 7%) (p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients regarding oral health conditions.

Conclusion: (DM) is strongly associated with poor oral health, with longer diabetes duration and poor glycemic control contributing to more severe oral complications. Effective diabetes management, including maintaining controlled blood sugar levels, is crucial for preventing and managing oral health issues in diabetic patients.

Recommendations: Clinicians should emphasize the importance of regular oral health check-ups for diabetic patients and integrate dental care into the overall management of diabetes. Improved interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and dental professionals is essential for the comprehensive care of diabetic individuals.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, oral health, periodontal disease, glycemic control, dental caries.