Thursday, April 05, 2007

Dental treatment considerations for diabetics

Because many diabetics are at risk of developing oral complications, many require antibiotic coverage. Because diabetics may experience delayed wound healing and a higher susceptibility to infection, cultures should be performed for acute oral infections with appropriate antibiotic therapy initiated. Those who undergo oral surgical procedures may experience delayed healing and/or alveolitis (dry socket). Ouch!

Some diabetic patients may require an adjustment of insulin because dental alveolar surgery, orofacial infections, and the stress of anticipated dental procedures can thus increase serum glucose levels; this increases metabolic insulin required for diabetic patients. Thus, the dentist may consult with the insulin-dependent patient’s physician prior to proceeding with surgical or involved restorative procedures. Patients who require insulin usually require a slight increase in insulin due to an acute oral infection or just prior to undergoing dental treatment.

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