Diabetes and oral health represent a combination that can lead to complications if the appropriate measures are not taken. Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection and slows down the healing process. If left unchecked, it can damage leukocytes (white blood cells), the body's main defense against infection. This is why mouth infections can become more serious in people with uncontrolled diabetes.

Diabetes can also decrease salivary flow and increase glucose levels in saliva, making it the ideal setting for fungal (fungus) infections such as candidiasis.

The General Council of Dentists recommends that people with this pathology follow a series of guidelines:

• Have strict oral hygiene: Brush your teeth meticulously after meals, in the morning and at night, for two minutes with a suitable brush. Use fluoridated toothpaste and do not forget daily interdental hygiene with dental floss or an interdental brush.
• Maintain healthy habits: Control the balance of blood sugar, weight, follow a proper diet, exercise, do not smoke and avoid alcohol.
• Visit the dentist: Go to the dentist at least twice a year, even in the absence of symptoms.

Dr. Óscar Castro Reino, president of the General Council of Dentists of Spain, explains that “diabetic people are more likely to have periodontal disease, which can cause pain, prolonged bad breath, chewing difficulties and even loss of teeth. teeth. Diabetes can also delay the healing process and interfere with dental treatment, so having it under control is the best prevention against oral diseases.”

“Oral Health and Diabetes” CampaignTo make people with diabetes aware of the importance of maintaining good oral health, the General Council of Dentists of Spain and the Spanish Dental Foundation (FDE) launch the “Oral Health and Diabetes” Campaign. This initiative has the collaboration of the Spanish Diabetes Federation (FEDE) and the General Council of Pharmaceutical Associations, and is based on three pillars:

1. - Free dental check-up at any of the 1,085 dental clinics registered in the campaign. From May 9 to June 3, all people with diabetes who wish can make an appointment for a dental check-up. You can access the list of participating clinics here.
2. - The platform www.saludoralydiabetes.es , aimed both at diabetics and health professionals, in which educational material (infographics, videos, frequently asked questions, etc.) and the location map of clinics are reflected in a didactic way registered dentists, among other information of interest.
3. - An online course with self-assessment, aimed at dentists, which will be available on the web for two months.