What You Need to Know About the Growing Diabetes Epidemic

Diabetes is no longer a distant public health concern, but rather a fast-growing epidemic transforming the health of our youngest patients. In the United States, diabetes rates are expected to rise sharply by 2060.¹ The most significant increases will likely be among children and adolescents, with youth diabetes cases possibly doubling and youth type 2 diabetes rising by more than 600%.¹ This trajectory poses a serious public health threat with major consequences for both systemic and oral health.

These projections require dental hygienists to act by screening for early diabetes risk, educating patients on oral–systemic connections, promoting healthy habits, and referring when needed. Dental hygienists are well-positioned to detect early signs, offer guidance, and help slow the epidemic. Their expertise and consistent action can improve health outcomes.

The Oral–Systemic Health Connection

The connection between diabetes and oral health is well established.² Diabetes raises the risk of periodontal diseases, tooth loss, dry mouth, and infections. Inflammation fuels a two-way relationship: periodontal diseases worsen glycemic control, while poor diabetes control speeds oral decline. Controlling periodontal inflammation is essential in diabetes care.

Many people with diabetes keep medical appointments but skip dental care, missing early detection and prevention. This gap highlights the vital role dental hygienists play in education, risk assessment, and raising systemic health awareness.

Dietary Trends and Metabolic Risk

Most Americans consume ultra-processed foods, added sugars, refined carbs, and sugary drinks, which are inextricably linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation, especially among young people. These habits also increase dental caries risk, directly tying metabolic and oral health.

Not all metabolic dysfunction is preventable, but research shows lifestyle changes, such as eating whole foods, cutting sugar, and being more active. can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals.²

The Dental Hygienist’s Unique Role

Dental hygienists are often the first to spot signs of systemic disease. Widespread gingival inflammation without local causes, plus patient history, are red flags. Targeted screening and primary care referrals enable faster diagnosis and intervention.

Dental hygienists spend more time with patients during prevention visits, enabling the provision of focused, actionable education, including:

• Explaining the connection between diabetes and periodontal health in clear, relatable terms
• Discussing how sugar and carbohydrate frequency affect both oral tissues and blood glucose control
• Encouraging realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes that support overall health

When delivered consistently and without judgment, these conversations can have lasting effects.

Conclusion

The projected diabetes surge by 2060, especially in American youth, demands action from all healthcare professionals, including dental hygienists. Oral health mirrors and influences overall health, making dental hygienists key in prevention, early detection, and patient education.

By focusing on the oral–systemic connection, leading prevention, and working with other providers, dental hygienists help create a healthier generation. The opportunity is greater than ever, let’s pursue it with passion and purpose.

References

1. Tönnies T, Brinks R, Isom S, et al. Projections of type 1 and type 2 diabetes burden in the U.S. population aged <20 years through 2060: The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study. Diabetes Care. 2023;46: 313–320.
2. United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes and Oral Health Facts. [[make link live: https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/data-research/facts-stats/fast-facts-diabetes-and-oral-health.html]]