Repercussions of diabetes mellitus on the oral cavity

Abstract

AbstractOral health is a cardinal element of nutritional as well as systemic well-being and plays a substantial part in sustaining optimum general health condition. Various factors influence oral health including metabolic diseases such as endocrine (diabetes mellitus [DM]), hematological, gastrointestinal, cutaneous, and neurological diseases. The intent of this review is to accentuate the correlation between DM and oral disorders, like those upsetting oral mucosa and supporting tissues. A review of literature was performed using relevant key words (“Oral Manifestations of Diabetes” OR “Oral Complications of Diabetes” OR “Oral Impacts of Diabetes” OR “Oral Repercussions of Diabetes“) in prominent journals pertaining to Endocrinology and Dentistry (Journal of Periodontology, Periodontology 2000, British Dental Journal, The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, PloS ONE, and Nature Reviews Genetics). The most frequently witnessed diabetic manifestations in oral cavity include gingivitis and periodontitis leading to premature tooth loss, salivary dysfunctions, dental caries, delayed wound healing, bacterial and fungal infections, lichen planus, taste impairment, tongue abnormalities, neurosensory oral disorders, halitosis, and dry socket. In the end, I have comprehensively described the role of antidiabetic drugs in the management of DM and eventually leading to prevention of its oral complications. In this review, etiopathophysiology of each oral complication has been prudently analyzed to contemplate the establishment of a possible preventive and treatment approach.