Raising awareness about link between diabetes and dental problems

The Summa Health System Center for Dental Health in Akron is trying to raise awareness about the link between diabetes and dental problems. (Source: "Blood sugar is a danger to teeth," Beacon Journal, Dec 11, 2007.) "Though eye screenings and foot exams routinely are recommended for patients with diabetes, routine dental care too often gets overlooked," said Dr. James Salem, an endocrinologist and chief of Summa's endocrine division. Diabetic patients are at increased risk for gum disease, as well as periodontitis, which spreads to the supporting structures of the tooth. In addition, many diabetics have severely dry mouths because of salivary gland dysfunction and without an adequate amount of saliva, teeth are prone to dental decay. Among Salem's recommendations are that dentists "give diabetic patients antibiotics before dental procedures and intense fluoride treatments at home and in the office."