On World Diabetes Day, held each year on November 14, Olga Lebedeva, an orthodontist and specialist at the Eurokappa Scientific and Clinical Center, shared insights about how diabetes affects oral health in a conversation with socialbites.ca. Her observations underscore the connection between systemic disease and dental well-being, a topic that deserves attention from patients and clinicians alike.
Lebedeva explained that diabetes disrupts the body’s hormonal balance. When the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot use insulin effectively, blood sugar rises. This hyperglycemic state triggers a cascade of metabolic disturbances that can impair tissue function and weaken the immune response. As a result, the mouth does not stay insulated from the wider health challenges posed by diabetes, and the teeth and gums can be affected alongside other organs and systems.
In patients with diabetes, mouth ulcers and nonhealing mucosal lesions may appear, and gum tissue can become prone to bleeding. The doctor described the situation this way: hormonal shifts, problems with glucose metabolism, and insufficient nourishment of tissues contribute to inflammation of the gums, accelerated tooth decay, and stomatitis. Wounds on the gums may take longer to heal, periodontal disease can prove difficult to treat, and the loss of teeth may occur as a consequence of ongoing periodontal deterioration.
Lebedeva stressed that because diabetes often impairs tissue regeneration and increases bleeding risk, routine orthodontic procedures become more complicated. Teeth cannot be removed casually, and traditional braces or aligners may not be suitable for patients with diabetes. Alternatives such as bridges, implants, or dentures can be considered, yet the orthodontic route itself requires careful evaluation and planning in collaboration with medical professionals.
The orthodontist highlighted the importance of diligent oral hygiene and regular preventive dental visits for people living with diabetes. A thorough hygiene routine helps reduce plaque buildup and supports gum health, which in turn can mitigate some complications associated with the condition. Consistent professional checkups enable early detection of problems, allowing timely intervention before issues escalate.
Lebedeva offered practical steps to strengthen gum tissue and protect enamel. She recommended the use of an oral irrigator with a specially formulated solution to improve gum health and reduce inflammation. Incorporating a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits supports overall health and provides essential nutrients that benefit the mouth. Quitting smoking is also strongly advised, given its additional harm to oral tissues and its tendency to worsen diabetic complications. The emphasis on professional cleaning remains important, with a suggestion that individuals, particularly those managing diabetes, have their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. In addition, she noted that certain products exist that can help restore the mineral composition of tooth enamel, contributing to surface resilience against decay and wear.
Overall, the message is clear: diabetes requires a proactive, integrated approach to oral care. By combining daily hygiene, dietary choices, smoking cessation, and regular dental supervision, patients can better preserve gum health and tooth integrity even in the face of metabolic challenges. The goal is to maintain a stable oral environment that supports general health and reduces the risk of complications that could complicate diabetes management. This approach aligns with a broader perspective on preventive dentistry and healthy aging, recognizing the mouth as a critical gateway to overall well-being. Lebedeva, Eurokappa Scientific and Clinical Center
Earlier discussions in the field have addressed related questions about dental beauty and procedures, such as the effectiveness of teeth whitening with strips, highlighting that cosmetic choices should be considered in light of individual health status and dental stability. This broader context reinforces the need for personalized guidance when addressing cosmetic dental concerns in patients with metabolic disorders.