T1D Dental/Oral Impact

Kids with T1D face unique oral hurdles with fluctuating blood sugar, immune shifts and other metabolic twists. These challenges can impact their teeth and gums. Awareness and proactive care with support from parents and caregivers are key. Below are the major T1D-related oral concerns, backed by science.

▪️Increased Risk of Dental Decay

T1D children are more susceptible to dental caries due to fluctuating blood sugar levels. Excess sugars fuel bacteria that erode enamel, increasing cavity risk.

*Study: Oral Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus in Children: A Review, Journal of Diabetes Research (2021)

▪️Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis)

Poorly controlled blood sugar leads to chronic gum inflammation, making T1D children more vulnerable to gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

*Study: Periodontal Disease in Children with Diabetes, Pediatric Dentistry (2017)

▪️ Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

High glucose levels and dehydration reduce saliva production, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease while making eating and speaking difficult.

*Study: Diabetes and Dry Mouth: A Review, Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders (2020)

▪️Oral Thrush & Infections

T1D weakens the immune system, making children more prone to fungal infections like oral thrush, leading to painful white patches and increased infection risk.

*Study: Oral Candida in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Pediatric Diabetes (2019)

▪️Altered Salivary Composition

T1D can change the composition of saliva, reducing protective factors and increasing susceptibility to cavities, gum disease and infections.

*Study: Salivary Changes in Type 1 Diabetic Children, International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry (2021)

▪️Delayed Wound Healing (Oral Ulcers & Lacerations)

Elevated glucose levels slow healing, prolonging discomfort from oral ulcers and increasing the risk of secondary infections.

*Study: Delayed Wound Healing in Diabetes Mellitus, Journal of Diabetes & Metabolism (2018)

▪️ Considerations for Orthodontic Treatment

T1D can impact orthodontic outcomes due to gum disease, delayed healing, and higher infection risk, requiring careful monitoring.

*Study: Orthodontic Treatment and Diabetes: Considerations for Successful Management, American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics (2020)

▪️Sleep-Breathing Disorders & T1D

Children with T1D have a higher risk of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can further affect glucose control and overall health.

*Study: Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children with Type 1 Diabetes, Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (2019)

▪️Smaller Airways & Respiratory Impact

Research suggests T1D children may have smaller jaws and underbites, leading to smaller upper airways, potentially contributing to breathing difficulties and increased risk of sleep-related issues.

*Study: Upper Airway Anatomy in Children with Type 1 Diabetes, Pediatric Pulmonology (2020)