당뇨병 환자의 구강건강 인식 및 자각증상에 대한 분석

Assessment of Oral Health Perception and Subjective Symptoms in Patients with Diabetes

Objectives: To analyze differences in subjective oral health perception, oral health interest, oral health knowledge, and subjective oral symptoms according to the diabetes status of adults with diabetes, and to assess their oral health behaviors. Methods: This cross-sectional survey included 290 adults aged ≥30 years with physician-diagnosed diabetes who were recruited from a dental clinic in Busan and an online diabetes community between September and October 2024. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using chi-square tests, t-tests, and one-way ANOVA with Scheffé’s post-hoc test. Results: Higher blood glucose levels and frequent hyperglycemia were associated with poorer self-perceived oral health and lower oral health interest (p<.05). Oral health knowledge was significantly lower in patients with longer diabetes duration, higher glucose levels, or HbA1c levels of 5.7-6.4% (p<.05). Subjective oral symptoms were more frequently reported by patients with poor glycemic control, particularly those with frequent hyperglycemia, high glucose levels, and combined oral medication–insulin therapy (p<.05). Among oral health behaviors, toothbrushing after meals showed the highest adherence, with a mean score of 4.20±0.73, whereas participation in oral health education showed the lowest adherence, with a mean score of 2.94±1.35. Conclusions: Although the regional and online-based recruitment used in this study may limit the generalizability of its findings, diabetes status appears to be closely related to oral health perception, knowledge, and symptoms. To improve oral health in patients with diabetes, systematic management strategies are needed that emphasize effective glycemic control while targeting oral health education, active promotion of oral health regimens, and regular periodontal check-ups. A tailored educational approach and integration of oral health management into diabetes care are essential for achieving comprehensive patient outcomes.