The number of people with diabetes is increasing due to population growth, aging, urbanization, and increasing prevalence of obesity and physical inactivity. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism characterized by hyperglycemia, with an estimated 171 million patients worldwide in the year 2000. Its prevalence is rapidly increasing and the total number of people with diabetes is projected to rise to 366 million in 2030. The disease is characterized by an increased susceptibility to infection, poor wound healing, and increased morbidity and mortality associated with disease progression. It is also recognized as an important risk factor for more severe and progressive periodontitis, infection or lesions resulting in the destruction of tissues and supporting bone that form the attachment around the tooth. In this article, various oral complications of diabetes are discussed, along with recommendations for management, treatment, and proper referral.
