Stabilizing blood glucose with floss, interdental brushes

Interdental cleaning could help manage blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes, according to a news report from Oral Health.

In a study published in Diabetes Spectrum, researchers used continuous glucose monitoring sensors to assess blood glucose levels in 104 adult patients with Type 2 diabetes.

After evaluating the oral hygiene habits of the patients, the researchers found that the participants who practiced interdental cleaning with floss or interdental brushes at least three times weekly demonstrated greater blood glucose control compared with those who cleaned between their teeth less often. Further, tooth-brushing frequency was inversely correlated with metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers such as body mass index, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

The findings suggested that good oral hygiene habits could help optimize Type 2 diabetes management.

Read more: Oral Health

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