ORAL HYGIENE AWARENESS AND PRACTICES AMONGST PACIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS-A CROSS-SECTIONAL

Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of oral conditions, yet the level of awareness regarding this relationship remains insufficiently documented among patients. The aim of the study: to assess knowledge of the link between diabetes and oral health, as well as to identify behaviors and barriers related to oral hygiene among diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 130 diabetic patients using a structured questionnaire to evaluate their knowledge, practices, and perceptions of oral hygiene. Results: Only 53.3% of respondents were aware of the diabetes–oral health link, and 10% never brush their teeth. Just 13.3% attend regular dental check-ups, with fear, cost, and limited access cited as the main avoidance factors. Conclusions: The low level of information and poor oral hygiene practices among diabetic patients necessitate the integration of dental education into diabetes care through tailored interventions and effective interdisciplinary collaboration.