JAPAN: According to a recent study, people with raised HbA1c levels, elevated fasting blood glucose levels (FPG), and over 30 have fewer natural teeth than healthy individuals.
To assess the correlation of glycemic control and tooth retention in different age groups, Hiroshi Maegawa and Katsutaro Morino, lead researchers collaborating with Sunstar, an international oral healthcare company, examined the 233,567 individuals' oral health aged between 20 and 70 years old. They analysed the dental records, HbA1c levels and smoking data of each participant.
The researchers found that subjects with impaired fasting glucose were already at risk of having fewer teeth between 40 and 90 years old than those with normal FPG. Moreover, the risk of tooth loss is further increased due to smoking and high blood glucose levels.
The findings proved that glycemic control has been strongly associated with the number of natural teeth and suggests the importance of glycemic control, smoking cessation and appropriate oral care from protecting anyone with diabetes against tooth loss from a young age.
The research 'Glycemic control and number of natural teeth: analysis of cross-sectional Japanese employment-based dental insurance claims and medical check-up data' was published in Diabetology International.
