New clinical guidelines released by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) emphasize the importance of periodontal health for people with diabetes, according to a press release from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP).
The new IDF oral health clinical guideline supports what research has already suggested: that management of periodontal disease can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes; and can also help people with diabetes control their blood sugar levels. Studies have suggested there is a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease, and the IDF guideline outlines helpful guidance for health professionals who treat people living with and at risk for diabetes.
The IDF guideline contains clinical recommendations on periodontal care, written in collaboration with the World Dental Federation, that encourage health professionals to conduct annual inquiries for symptoms of periodontal disease such as swollen or red gums or bleeding during tooth brushing, and to educate their patients with diabetes about the implications of the condition on oral health, and especially periodontal health.
In recognition of American Diabetes Month, the AAP said it commends the International Diabetes Foundation on the release of the guidelines and supports its encouragement of continued collaboration and communication between diabetes and oral healthcare professionals.
In addition, Samuel Low, D.D.S., M.S., associate dean and professor of periodontology at the University of Florida College of Dentistry and president of the AAP is encouraging the medical and dental communities to work together to provide the best possible care for patients.
According to the IDF, diabetes affects approximately 246 million people worldwide, and this number is only expected to increase. The IDF is an organization of 200 national diabetes associations from 160 countries.
