DIABETES AND DISEASES OF THE ORAL CAVITY IN CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Diabetes is a prevalent metabolic condition characterized by hyperglycemia, impacting various systems in the body, including oral health. This article aims to elucidate the complex relationship between diabetes and oral health, focusing on the mechanisms underlying this interaction and proposing strategies for prevention and management. The link between diabetes and oral health is multifactorial, involving factors such as chronic inflammation, poor immune response, and delayed tissue healing. People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing oral conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral infections, which can worsen systemic complications and compromise quality of life. Effective diabetes management plays an important role in preventing and mitigating oral complications. Blood sugar control, along with rigorous oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist, are essential for maintaining oral health in diabetic patients. Moreover, interdisciplinary collaboration between dental practitioners and diabetes specialists is essential for patient care, facilitating early detection and intervention of oral problems and optimizing overall health outcomes.