diabetes; Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s overall health and can also have significant effects on oral health. Special care and attention is required during dental treatment for diabetic patients.
Effects of Diabetes on Oral and Dental Health
Diabetes can affect oral health in several ways:
- Diabetes can slow the wound healing process.
- High blood sugar levels increase the risk of infection.
- Individuals with diabetes are more prone to gum infections.
- Diabetes can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay.
These factors require special precautions during dental treatment.
Dental Treatment Process in Diabetics
1. Pre-treatment Evaluation
Diabetes level should be controlled before dental treatment. The following information should be shared through detailed communication between the dentist and the patient:
- Blood sugar level (HbA1c value)
- Control status of diabetes
- Medications used and insulin therapy
- Previous complications
Note: If diabetes is not under control, planned treatments may be postponed.
2. Treatment Planning
Treatment is planned according to the status of diabetes:
- Antibiotic prophylaxis can be applied when necessary.
- During treatment, blood sugar levels should be checked regularly.
- Since long treatment processes may affect sugar levels, shorter and divided sessions are preferred.
3. Local Anesthesia and Bleeding Control
In diabetic patients:
- Local anesthesia can be applied safely, but medications containing epinephrine should be used with caution.
- Appropriate techniques and medications are used to control bleeding.
4. Treatment Methods
- Tooth cleaning and filling: Standard applications can be performed safely.
- Tooth extraction: If blood sugar is under control, tooth extraction can be performed. Precautions are taken before and after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Dental implants: Implant applications are possible if diabetes is under control. However, the healing process should be closely monitored.
- Gum treatments: Gum treatments are important because gum infections can make diabetes control difficult.
5. Post-Treatment Care
- Blood sugar levels should be monitored closely.
- During the healing process, oral hygiene should be taken care of.
- Smoking negatively affects oral health in individuals with diabetes, so smoking should be avoided.
Oral and Dental Health Recommendations for Diabetics
- Blood sugar control: When diabetes is controlled, oral health problems are less common.
- Regular dentist check-ups: A dentist check-up should be done every 6 months.
- Oral hygiene: Teeth should be brushed regularly and flossed.
- Precautions against dry mouth: Chewing sugar-free gum or using mouth moisturizers may be beneficial.
Dental treatment for diabetic patients depends on both the patient’s general health condition and the control of blood sugar levels. With proper planning and a professional approach, safe and successful dental treatment is possible for individuals with diabetes.
If you have diabetes and have problems with your dental health, we can create the most appropriate treatment plan for you by consulting our expert dentists.
