Oral cavity that appears otherwise, actually is a five star restaurant for the local flora (microbes) that stay inside. The above statement holds true because as soon as the food bolus enters the mouth the first step of digestion & breakdown of carbohydrates starts at this “epicenter” of our “GUT” system…

This heroic task of carbohydrate metabolism is well performed at the entrance itself by the herculean microbe “streptococcus mutans” along with salivary amylase to keep the blood glucose in range….

With the turbulence coming in the local “micro” environment due to the unhealthy habits, diseases & the improper maintenance of oral hygiene, the “host” bacteria’s becomes the “ghost” bacteria’s which cause gum and periodontal diseases. The gum and periodontal inflammation further leads to poor glycemic control and worsen the type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients….

In this Article

Host bacterias changing to ghost bacterias in diabetic oral cavity-

Hyperglycemia causes increase in bacterial colonization of Enterobacteriacae, Aerococeus, Enterococcus & high pathogenicity Staphylococcus which cause periodontal diseases and impaired

healing of oral tissues….

This gives rise to the need for expert cleaning agents for diabetic patients

The viscious cycle of gingivitis and periodontitis and (Type 2) Diabetes Mellitus –

Just like the above illustration, diabetes cause periodontal diseases in patients and periodontitis in turn worsen the state of diabetes in them….

Also read: Managing Oral Health During Influenza: Expert Guidance from Dr. Gene Romo

Don’t “rule out” the “role” of a dentist-

Having seen the influence that oral health and diabetes have on each other, the dentists seem to play a central role in the whole process of fixing oral health issues in diabetic people which can further keep a watch on their glycemic control….

According to the data collected in 2019, there are estimated 72.96 million cases of diabetes in adult population of India. The prevalence in urban areas ranges between 10.9% and 14.2% amongst population aged 20 years and above with a much higher prevalence among individuals aged over 50 years (INDIAB Study).

The number is constantly rising and every house has diabetic patients, which raises the need for proper directions, awareness and recommendation of toothpaste by the family dentist to the people with diabetes…

Following are the few important tips to give your patients with diabetes….

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss your teeth at least once a day.
Tell your dentist if you have diabetes.
If your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily, see your dentist. Other signs of diabetic mouth include dry mouth, loose teeth, or mouth pain.

Triclosan and fluoride containing omnident provides optimum care to keep plaque and caries causing bacteria’s in control and since it is devoid of artificial sugars it can be used effectively in our “sweet folks”!!!