Studies indicate a reciprocal relationship between oral health and diabetes; diabetes increases the risk of gum disease because high-sugar saliva feeds harmful bacteria, while severe gum infections make it difficult to control blood sugar levels, creating a vicious cycle. Dry mouth is one of the most prominent issues faced by people with diabetes, either due to the disease itself or as a side effect of some medications. Lack of saliva, which acts as a natural cleanser and acid buffer, increases mouth acidity, accelerates tooth erosion, and raises the rate of cavities and infections. Pisan emphasizes that managing oral health for diabetic patients relies on two main pillars: good blood sugar control and adherence to proactive and intensive oral care. Despite the traditional medical focus on diabetes-related complications affecting the heart, kidneys, and eyes, oral health remains largely overlooked, explains Eileen Pisan, a professor of cariology at Queen Mary University in London. Pisan points out in an article published on 'Science Alert' that chronically high blood sugar weakens blood vessels and nerves, slows wound healing, and reduces the body's ability to fight infections, making the mouth a fertile environment for multiple problems. Recent studies show a strong and direct link between diabetes and oral health, as patients often face oral issues including dry mouth, gum pain, and difficulty chewing, which deprive them of the pleasure of eating and negatively impact their nutrition and quality of life. Regarding dental implants, it is a viable option for people with diabetes, provided they achieve optimal disease control to minimize the risk of inflammation and slow wound healing. Pisan concludes that oral care is not a secondary element for a diabetic patient's life but is an essential part of disease management, as it directly improves the ability to eat, achieve better blood sugar stability, and boost self-confidence and quality of life. This care includes regular and thorough cleaning, using fluoride-containing products, and undergoing regular dental check-ups, during which the dentist may recommend additional preventive treatments. For denture wearers, daily care for the prosthetics, removing them at night, and cleaning the gums are essential steps to prevent infections and increase comfort.
