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
