How does diabetes affect oral health?

Almost 600 million of us may be living with type 2 diabetes by 2035. Alarming statistic, isn't it? Even though the most overwhelming risk factor for type

2 diabetes is a family history of it, there are a variety of everyday risks that could increase the chances of developing the condition. These include being overweight, a sedentary lifestyle and a poor diet. As a dental nurse, you have a professional responsibility to encourage healthy eating habits – a vital key to halting this ‘epidemic’.

The rocketing figures are having a huge impact on both our health and the public purse, with more than £2 million spent on diabetes drugs every day in primary care. But there are solutions. A healthy lifestyle and healthy eating – that include leafy vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains, lean meat, unsweetened yogurt and nuts – can prevent up to 70% of type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet is also the key to successful management of the disease. Good diabetes management reduces the risk of further health complications. Simply being aware of the risk factors can help to minimise them and avoid further complications, such as health problems affecting eyes, heart, kidneys, nerves and feet, sexual dysfunction, depression – and dental health.