1/10 people are diabetic – World Diabetes Day 2022

The aim of World Diabetes Day is to raise awareness of the challenges of living with diabetes, as well as helping people to reduce their chance of becoming diabetic.

• 1 in 10 adults were living with diabetes in 2021
• More than 1.2 million children and adolescents (0-19 years) live with type 1 diabetes
• Diabetes caused 6.7 million deaths in 2021

(Source: World Diabetes Day)

Type 2 diabetes is on the increase

A cause for concern worldwide is that the age for diagnosis with type 2 diabetes is getting younger.

• An increasing number of children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. 

In the past, type 2 diabetes was a condition that adults got. A problem that developed with age. A problem often associated with weight gain and even called “adult-onset diabetes”. Yet, in just three years the RCPCH reports a 41% rise in the number of people under 25 diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is serious

• Try this risk assessment tool from Diabetes UK

Diabetes can have a severe impact, and even cause premature death. Given the serious condition diabetes is, it may seem trivial to talk about teeth. But many people who suffer from diabetes become very uncomfortable, mentally as well as physically. They suffer unnecessary pain because of the deterioration of their oral health.

• Additional information about the impact of diabetes on oral health.

As dentists, we are concerned about the general health of our patients. We’re also concerned about the effect that health problems have on the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth. People who have diabetes, especially if blood-sugar levels are not consistently maintained, are more likely to suffer dental health issues.

Oral health concerns people with diabetes are prone to include:

• dry mouth
• oral thrush
• gum inflammation
• periodontitis
• tooth decay

Here are a few tips to help prevent gum disease:

• Talk to your dentist: Your dentist needs to know if you’re taking insulin, and if your blood sugar level is variable.
• Step up your oral hygiene routine:
  • Brush your teeth 30 minutes after each meal with a soft bristled brush.
  • Floss daily.
  • Use inter-dental brushes.
  • Rinse with antiseptic mouth wash once a day.
  • Drink water regularly.
  • Avoid snacks between meals.
  • If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night.

• Book regular appointments with your dentist, dental hygienist or therapist.
• Paying for private dental care can be more reasonable than you think.
• Consider a SpaDental payment plan (Essentials). A plan spreads dental costs over the year in monthly payments. 
• Help children to grow into healthy adults.

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