Abstract

Diabetes can endanger people in all age groups. There is observed an evident trend of increase in the prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This paper discusses the possible impact of diabetes on oral diseases and the ways by which untreated periodontitis may influence the course of diabetes. In cases of uncontrolled diabetes as well as long anamnesis there may develop such oral complications as gingivitis, periodontitis, oral mucosal diseases, xerostomia, and burning mouth syndrome. Prevention of diabetes complications is first of all connected with effective treatment including glycaemic control in patients with diabetes. Diabetes patients should pass regular oral check-ups by the dentist to discover oral diseases in the initial phase, and receive adequate treatment and supportive therapy. The principles of treatment of periodontitis for diabetic patients are the same as those for non-diabetic patients and are consistent with our approach to all highrisk patients who already have periodontal disease. Surgical and conservative treatment of oral diseases may be carried out without limitations in patients with diabetes mellitus in the case of good glycaemic control. Elimination of inflammation in periodontal tissues will support stabilisation of blood sugar levels. Prevention and control of periodontal disease as well as other associated oral diseases should be considered an integral part of diabetes control. Patients gain from close cooperation of dentists, family doctors and other specialists.