Periodontitis and diabetes—a complex relationship
Work Cited:
References
Gharat, A. (2011). Periodontitis and diabetes-a complex relationship. International Journal Of Diabetes In Developing Countries, 31(3), 128-132. doi:10.1007/s13410-011-0034-2
Description of Disease:
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to the defective secretion or activity of insulin. Diabetes is associated with an increased prevalence,extent and severity of gingivitis and periodontitis.
Distinguishing Diagnostic Factors:
The pathogenesis of periodontal disease is complex because it reflects a combination of the initiation and maintenance of the chronic inflammatory process by adverse microbial flora and its numerous bacterial products (Carmu, 2003). The subsequent host-response to this infection mediates a complex cascade of tissue destructive pathways (Page, 1991).
Etiology of Disease:
This article discusses the relationship between Diabetes and periodontitis. It talks about how diabetes can cause periodontitis and also how periodontitis can make diabetes worse. Periodontal disease increases the risk of poor glycemic control and other diabetic complications, and studies have shown improved glycemic control with reduction in periodontitis.
Pathogens associated with the Disease:
Early studies of the pathogenesis of periodontal disease inthose with diabetes mellitus focused on basement membrane thickening and possible changes in the vasculature (Reeve, 1971).
Factors to Include in Patient Education:
Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing inflammatory periodontal diseases and glycemic control is an important determinant in this relationship. Good oral home care is very important for a patient with diabetes and periodontitis. By reducing the inflammatory response of periodontitis it is easier to control the diabetes.
Maintenance Recommendations:
It is important fro the patient with periodontitis to be placed on a three month recall to get the disease under control and reduce the inflammation and stop the progression of bone loss. The patient should keep up outstanding home care in between office visits and keep in close contact with their physician about their diabetes .