Diabetics twice as likely to lose their TEETH – and scientists don’t know why

Diabetics are more at risk from losing their teeth says study

DIABETICS are at major risk of losing their teeth, according to a first-of-its-kind study which highlights the frightening list of health problems brought on by the condition.

On top of an increased risk of many health problems diabetics have to contend with, people suffering from the condition are also more at risk of poor dental health.

Pioneering research released in Preventing Chronic Disease looked at tooth-loss trends from more than 37,000 people over the age of 25 between 1971 and 2012.

The 40-year study discovered there were “substantial differences in tooth loss” between adults with diabetes and people living without the disease.

Some diabetic p

In one year, diabetics were 34 per cent more likely to have less teeth than non-diabetics

opulations even experienced TWICE as much tooth-loss than non-diabetics.

Between 1999 and 2000, people with diabetes were a third less likely to have at least 21 teeth, compared to non-diabetic adults.

Tooth-loss, perhaps unsurprisingly, was less prevalent in younger diabetics, with researchers suggesting that this was due to better access to dental care, more awareness and knowledge of oral health, technological change and improvements in dental hygiene.

 

Younger diabetics were less susceptible to tooth loss

Although researchers couldn’t pinpoint exactly why there’s a link between diabetes and tooth loss to stop it from happening, some experts believe that gum disease might be a complication that can affect diabetics.

One in three diabetics suffer from periodontitis, a form of gum disease that can erode the bone around the tooth and even the tissue, if more severe, diabetes.co.uk estimates.

High blood glucose levels and medication also contribute to the risk of developing gum disease, say the website.

  

Scientists say good dental hygiene should be a priority with diabetics

Researchers suggested that all diabetic adults should pay attention to dental care and advice about tooth retention. 

Regular check-ups, brushing and flossing are all recommended for good dental hygiene.