Gingival Health Status children with Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus
Description of Disease: Dental Plaque-Induced Gingival Disease modified by systemic factors: an inflammatory periodontal disease that affects the area within the oral cavity called the gingiva. Inflamed tissue in the gingival region, bleeding, and changes in contour are common. Disease of the periodontium, only in the gingival tissue.
Distinguishing Diagnostic factors: Swollen margins and interdental papillae, bleeding upon probing, redness, tenderness but no attachment loss. The amount of plaque is not consistent with the amount of inflammatory response. Always review health history for systemic diseases that could effect periodontium.
Etiology: Plaque initiates gingival disease but the systemic disease, diabetes, modifies the process
Pathogens: Gram-positive cocci and rods; Streptococcus, Actinomyces, Capnocytophaga, Eubacterium, Fusobacterium, and Veillonella
Classification of disease using AAP: IA
Prevalence of the disease: A group of 72 children were tested. Higher dental plaque levels and gingival scores were observed in type-1 diabetes versus non-diabetic controls. The result of the study showed that children with type-1 diabetes have a much higher prevalence of gingivitis.
Factors to include in patient education: As long as plaque bacteria remains in contact with the gingiva, the inflammation will continue. Parents should brush and floss their children’s teeth until they possess the dexterity and discipline to care for their own teeth. It would benefit both children and adults with gingivitis modified by diabetes, to review correct brushing and flossing techniques.
Treatment recommendations: Type 1 diabetes requires early detention to prevent symptoms of gingivitis worsening. Early treatment of a professional dental cleaning should be done immediately to remove plaque and calculus from teeth.
Maintenance recommendations: Reinforcement of oral hygiene instructions, regular professional oral prophylaxis, and the use of anti-plaque mouthwash and floss are highly recommended.
Resources: Gujjar, K., Khadija, H., Suleiman, M., & Amith, H. V. (2011). Gingival Health Status of 2- to 15-year-old Benghazi Children With Type-I Diabetes Mellitus. Journal Of Dentistry For Children, 78(2), 96-101.