Romanian Journal of Medical and Dental Education Volum 14 Issue 3, 2025 ORAL HYGIENE AWARENESS AND PRACTICES AMONGST PACIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS-A CROSS-SECTIONAL

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

Adina Oana Armencia, Irina Bamboi, Bianca Toader, Anca Rapis, Andrei Nicolau, Flaviana Tatu, Daniela Argatu, Andronache Alina, Carina Balcos

Abstract

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.

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