Assessment of awareness among diabetic patients of their risk for oral disease as complication associated with diabetics at Patliputra Medical College And Hospital, Dhanbad

Abstract

Aim: To assess the awareness of diabetic patients of their risk for oral disease as a complication associated with diabetics.Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to defective secretion or activity of insulin. Type II diabetes is a common disorder with concomitant oral manifestation that impacts dental care. Evidence shows that many patients are unaware of the effects of diabetes mellitus on oral health.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among adult dental patients attending a tertiary care hospital of Bengaluru city. A total of 172 patients were included in the study.Results: Of 172 patients, 120 (69.7%) were male and 52 (30.3%) were female. Among 172 patients, 87 (50%) were aware that diabetes is more prone to oral diseases. Ninety-one (52%) of the study participants did not know that diabetes affects gingiva. Ninety-one (52%) of individuals knew that diabetes causes delay in wound healing. Eighty-one percent of the participants self-rated their mouth as good.Conclusion: Diabetic patients are less aware of their risk for dental diseases. Thus, it is necessary for dental professionals and related government agencies to promote awareness of the relationship between diabetes mellitus and oral health to prevent harmful complications on oral health.