Oral Health a diagnosis factor for diabetes?

CAN ORAL HEALTH FINDINGS HELP RECOGNIZE UNDIAGNOSED DIABETES??? YES!!!

Evaluation of two dental parameters- number of missing teeth and percentage of people suffering from gum disease and periodontal problems(esp pockets>5mm in depth) along with examination of glycated hemoglobin level called HbA1c significantly improved identification of diabetic and pre-diabetic individuals.

The studies conducted have also helped diagnose patients with a potential risk of Diabetes
(esp diabetes type 2)


Who are the higher risk individuals???

1.Family history of diabetes
2.Family history of hypertension
3.Family history of high cholesterol
4.Family history of being over-weight and obese
Presence of at least one of the above risk factors/in combination with more factors were found to be the susceptible individuals to Diabetes.




SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF THE DISEASE?
1.dull pain in the gums
2.mobile/loose teeth
3.problems with loose teeth despite good oral hygiene
4.bad breath and loose gums
5.redness/swelling/pus in the gums
6.fungal infections like oral thrush
7.taste disturbances
8.spaces opening up in between your teeth
9.dry mouth

Once the bad bacteria(unfriendly bacteria) multiplies in an uncontrolled Diabetic- Fighting the infection,bad breath/ tooth loss is very difficult.

Recognizing the causative factors and early diagnosis of the disease often helps in controlling diabetes and the resultant losses.




DIABETES AND TOOTH DECAY:

Diabetes is often related with dry mouth and tooth decay.The imbalance in the bacterial flora inside the mouth and plaque retention often increases the risk of tooth decay.

It is a well-established risk factor for periodontal disease, and dentists commonly treat patients who either have diabetes or are at increased diabetes risk due to obesity, family history of diabetes, hypertension, sedentary lifestyle and other factors.

Dentists should remain aware that specific oral health conditions, such as missing teeth or deep periodontal pockets, could suggest that the patient has one or more potential risk factors for diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Oral complications are commonly found in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes, making the dental office an ideal location for early identification and appropriate referral for medical evaluation.


Patients with diabetes are at least two to three times more likely to develop periodontal disease than non-diabetics, and should be advised to visit their dentist regularly for full evaluation of their dental and periodontal condition.
If you have diabetes, you should do the following to prevent tooth and gum problems:

1. Follow your doctor's advice about diet and medications to keep your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible.

2.Thoroughly clean your teeth and gums with toothpaste that contains fluoride.Use dental floss or interdental cleaners every day to clean between your teeth.

3.Visit your dentist regularly for advice about proper home care,early intervention and regular preventive maintenance visits to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

4.Avoid having a dry mouth- drink plenty of water and chew sugar free gums.

5.Avoid Smoking

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Contact your Dentist for a healthier life
Dr.Sreenita Chowdhury
sreenita28@gmail.com