Improved Oral Hygiene and New-Onset Diabetes Relation

By: Dr. Rajan Sharma

Relation Between Diabetes and Hygiene

Improved oral hygiene and new-onset diabetes are linked more than we thought. Brushing teeth three times a day or more can lower the risk of developing diabetes by 8 %.  On the other hand, dental disease can lead to a 9% increased risk of developing diabetes. Relation between improved dental hygiene and diabetes was published in Diabetologia, the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD).

Why is Good Oral Hygiene Important?

Experts believe periodontal disease and poor oral hygiene can lead to transient bacteremia and systemic inflammation. According to National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2020, 34.2 million Americans meaning just over 1 in every 10 suffer from diabetes. The numbers would rise if one doesn’t practice good dental hygiene.

Important Points to Note:

  • Frequent tooth brushing leads to less chance of developing on-set diabetes
  • Missing teeth is attributed to cause diabetes
  • Periodontal diseases like Gingivitis, Chronic periodontitis can lead to a higher chance of developing diabetes

Tips to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

  • Brushing teeth 3 times a day for at least 2-3 minutes
  • Flossing on a regular basis
  • Eat healthy food
  • Drink fluoridated water & avoid sugary drinks
  • Quit smoking and drinking

Important point: Consult dentists twice a year

Myth About Good Hygiene and Diabetes:

Myth: Diabetics are at a greater risk of developing dental cavities

Truth: People who control diabetes don’t have more tooth decay or periodontal diseases than the ones without diabetes. Improved oral hygiene and blood sugar control are the barriers against cavity formation and periodontal disease.

Myth: People with diabetes lose their teeth more often and sooner than people without diabetes

Truth: People who follow a sound dental hygiene routine can avoid losing teeth. Fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and controlled blood sugar are important to reduce periodontal disease.

Myth: Diabetics have a greater chance of contracting infection post oral surgery

Truth: Proper medical care, regulated blood sugar, good dental practices are key to controlling infections post oral surgery.  Problems are surgery is common to anyone, be it diabetic or non-diabetic.