World Diabetes Day – 14th November

On Nov 14 the world is going to celebrate yet another Diabetes day, This going to be the 19th World Diabetes day.

History: The World Diabetes Day was introduced by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991.

You might be thinking what is diabetes doing in a dentistry related site, as patients suffering from diabetes have more serious problems of the oral cavity, teeth and gums than an average person.

But diabetes has no signs of decreasing the rate at which it is spreading i think India is going to have every other person suffering from the disease, now there are at least 41 million people in India. And frighteningly, more than 50% of people with diabetes are unaware of their condition, costing society millions of rupees in treating the many serious complications that arise from undiagnosed or poorly treated diabetes.

Diabetes caused 3.8 million deaths globally in 2007, more than 6% of total world mortality in that year, as per estimates this number is going to double by 2030.

World Diabetes Day was Started by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and WHO, the Day is celebrated on 14 November to mark the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, was instrumental in the discovery of insulin in 1922, a life-saving treatment for diabetes patients.

Diabetes and gum diseases

Gum disease is a very common infection and occurs when bacteria within the mouth begins to form into a sticky plaque which sits on the surface of the tooth. Over time, if this is not removed by regular brushing using the correct technique, a gum inflammation called gingivitis can develop. Symptoms of gingivitis can include red and swollen gums and bleeding will often occur whilst brushing. Gum disease will stem from untreated gingivitis, and in turn the teeth will begin to decay.

One unfortunate side effect of diabetes and high blood glucose levels is the fact that any infection in or on the body will spread more easily. Keeping blood glucose levels under control reduces the risk of infection spreading. Unfortunately, when your body begins to fight an infection, blood glucose levels will usually rise in response. Should the infection in your mouth become worse, your food intake could be affected, further affecting your diabetes. Thrush of the mouth is also more common amongst people who have poor blood glucose control.

Visiting the dentist

Getting tensed about visiting the dentist is a bad idea, because it could make your blood sugar levels rise. Relax before your visit. When at the dentist, make absolutely sure that he or she knows that you have diabetes. Some dentists may require you to know your blood glucose level. Furthermore, before dental work you may have to take special precautions (such as not eating for a short period) that could affect your treatment regime.

High levels of blood sugar may affect the time the teeth and gums take to heal, and some dentists will prescribe antibiotics to prevent any chance of infection. If dental work is taking an unusually long time to heal, you should contact your diabetes health care team or dentist immediately for advice.

So i have to say that it is nice way to get yourself checked wether you are having diabetes, or chances of getting it in the future, as it a genetic and a heriditary disorder and as the medical professionals are going to conduct many programs about diabetes, it is good chance to get checked.

And i conclude this by saying what i always say “PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE”.