Oral Manifestations and Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is defined as a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in either insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.Diabetes mellitus is classified as Type I diabetes mellitus, Type II diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes and other specific types.It is associated with high morbidity due to complications, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease.Oral manifestations of diabetes include gingivitis, periodontitis, recurrent periodontal abscess, dry socket, oral candidiasis, xerostomia, glossodynia and burning mouth syndrome.Maintenance of good oral health may play a key role in glycemic control of the individual with diabetes.Management of oral complications of diabetes involves regular examinations, adequate oral hygiene, and smoking cessation.Therefore an oral physician must be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes, and understand the importance of maintaining oral health for patients with diabetes.