Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Taking into account the potential link between oral hygiene and glycemic management in individuals with type 2 diabetes, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between oral hygiene practices, namely, tooth brushing, interdental cleaning, dental visits, and remaining teeth, and glycemic variability measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in people with type 2 diabetes, with a particular focus on the role of inflammation. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 104 adults with type 2 diabetes visiting an internal medicine clinic. Questionnaires were used to collect data on oral hygiene practices, dental visit frequency, and the number of remaining teeth. Blood and urine samples were obtained, and CGM was performed for 2 weeks. The relationship between oral hygiene practices and diabetes management indicators, as well as inflammation markers, was analyzed. RESULTS: The frequency of tooth brushing was negatively correlated with BMI, inflammation-related markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-α, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Interdental cleaning three or more times per week compared with less frequent cleaning was associated with lower fasting blood glucose, lower A1C, and improve CGM-related metrics, including greater time in range (TIR), lower glucose management indicator (GMI), and lower time above range. In logistic regression analysis, interdental cleaning showed associations with achieving TIR and GMI goals, even after adjusting for background factors and inflammatory markers. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the crucial role of oral hygiene practices in type 2 diabetes. Regular dental visits and effective oral self-care are paramount for promoting optimal oral health and managing diabetes.