How Sweet It Is! Diabetes Mellitus, Dental Considerations and Patient Care Planning

Diabetes mellitus remains the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Of the estimated 29.1 million Americans that have diabetes, 21 million are diagnosed, while 8.1 million remain undiagnosed. Diabetes, and its systemic complications, are often accompanied by, and exacerbated by, numerous other co-morbid conditions.

This program will provide participants with an overview of diabetes mellitus, the arsenal of medications used in its treatment and the impact of both the disease and its treatment on dental therapy. Using case scenarios, special emphasis will be placed on the complex interplay between diabetes and the oral-systemic connection, as well as developing patient management strategies essential for successful treatment planning and proper care of our diabetic patients.

Learning objectives

• Identify the different types of diabetes mellitus, including their symptoms and differential diagnosis
• Describe the complex interplay of diabetes mellitus with oral-systemic inflammation and co-morbid diseases
• Review the classes of medications used in the treatment of diabetes along with their mechanisms of action, adverse reactions and dental considerations
• Describe the treatment modifications, patient management strategies and care planning techniques recommended for dental patients with diabetes