Diabetes, Older Age, and Lack of Flossing Puts You at Greater Risk of Tooth Loss

Previous studies have shown that patients with diabetes have a higher prevalence of dental loss and periodontal disease. Specifically, if a person has diabetes, he or she is almost 1-1/2 times more likely to lose their teeth compared to a healthy person without diabetes.

A recent study was designed to determine the association of particular clinical variables with dental loss. The study was conducted among approximately 200 diabetic adults, with a nearly equal split between men and women.  The study participants were evaluated investigator questionnaire.  The researchers also counted the number of teeth in each person to assess dental loss.

The researchers found, consistent with earlier studies, that dental loss is common in patients with diabetes. More specific to this study, the researchers found that age, not flossing, and the presence of diabetic retinopathy predicted dental loss.  Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye.

To reduce dental loss among patients with diabetes, the researchers recommended that regular flossing should be emphasized as part of dental care for those with diabetes.