Abstract:

Hyperglycemia, a pathological condition, predominantly defines diabetes mellitus, a persistent and complex metabolic dysfunction. It has a significant impact on oral health, as seen by conditions including periodontal disease, xerostomia (dry mouth), and increased susceptibility to infections. The intricate bidirectional relationship that exists between oral health and the metabolic disorder diabetes has been thoroughly documented, where it has been observed with poor oral hygiene worsening glycemic management and vice versa. Recently, there has been a change in focus toward the utilization of phytochemicals, the bioactive substances found in plants, as an additional treatment strategy for addressing issues related to dental health and diabetes. Phytochemicals exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant characteristics that are critical for battling oral infections as well as reducing the inflammatory processes associated with diabetic periodontitis. Evidence shows that these substances contribute to enhanced insulin sensitivity and glycemic management, in addition to their beneficial effects on dental health, such as suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress. This review investigates some complex interactions between diabetes and oral hygiene, as well as the role of inflammatory mediators, cellular oxidative stress, and dysfunction of the salivary gland. It explores the dual role of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, reseveratol, and saponins in the context of oral health care for diabetic individuals.

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