diabetes and Oral Health: A Critical Connection
By Dr. Daniel Olavarría Díaz, Dentist and Academic Surgeon CFT Santo Tomás Osorno
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively. There are two main types: Type 1 and Type 2, the latter being the most prevalent in Chile. In recent decades, its increase has been important, mainly associated with risk factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and a diet rich in sugars and fats. Diabetes affects 12.3% of adults and more than 30% of those over 65, meaning more than 1.8 million people in our country.
What many do not know is that oral health is closely linked to this condition. People with diabetes suffer oral manifestations such as oral dryness,a greater risk of caries,susceptibility to bacterial infections and fungi,and slow wound healing.
the most worrying and striking relationship occurs with periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that damages the tissues supporting the teeth, causes them to loosen, and can lead to their loss. In Chile,its prevalence exceeds 90% in adults,making it a true public health problem.
There is a bidirectional relationship between both diseases: poorly controlled diabetes favors the progression of periodontitis, and the latter, by generating chronic inflammation, increases insulin resistance, making glycemic control of diabetes tough. This vicious circle aggravates the prognosis of both conditions. Actually, treating periodontitis tends to improve blood glucose levels to some extent.
Despite this overwhelming association, many patients and health professionals are unaware of this critical relationship. The importance of serious complications that diabetes can produce if not controlled properly, such as heart problems, nerve damage, vision problems, renal damage, diabetic foot, and amputations, cannot be overstated.Integral management,including dental care,is essential for controlling the disease.
A concrete public health measure would be to incorporate specific dental benefits into the Diabetes Mellitus GES, allowing these patients to receive guaranteed dental care within their health status.
As care recommendations for diabetic patients,we can mention good medical control of the disease,adherence to pharmacological therapy and indicated diet,exercise,maintaining rigorous oral hygiene,regular visits to the dentist,being attentive to any changes in the mouth,such as bleeding,ulcers,or discomfort in the gums or other soft tissues,and visiting the dentist before any abnormality. Only in this way can we reduce the impact of these interconnected health challenges.
Diabetes, a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, has seen a global surge in prevalence over the past few decades. This rise is largely attributed to lifestyle changes, including increased consumption of processed foods, reduced physical activity, and rising obesity rates. the connection between diabetes and oral health, especially periodontitis, has been a growing area of research and clinical concern.Periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth, is exacerbated by diabetes due to the inflammatory response and impaired immune function associated with the condition. Conversely, the chronic inflammation present in periodontitis can negatively impact blood sugar control, creating a detrimental cycle for individuals with diabetes.
Frequently Asked questions:
Q: How does diabetes affect oral health?
A: Diabetes can lead to oral dryness, increased risk of cavities, susceptibility to infections, and slower wound healing. It also substantially worsens periodontitis.
Q: What is periodontitis?
A: Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, possibly leading to tooth loss.
Q: Is there a link between diabetes and periodontitis?
A: Yes, there is a bidirectional relationship. Poorly controlled diabetes worsens periodontitis,and periodontitis can worsen insulin resistance and glycemic control.
Q: Can treating periodontitis help manage diabetes?
A: Yes, treating periodontitis can help improve blood glucose levels to some extent by reducing chronic inflammation.
7 · Compliance & disclaimers
this article provides general information about the relationship between diabetes and oral health. It is not intended as medical, dental, financial, or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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