Insidious Role of Diabetes Mellitus on Nerves and Dental Pulp

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder with deleterious effect on the physiological functioning of body systems. The predisposition of body organs and tissues to infections, nervous and circulatory dysfunction brands this disease with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. The present scenario in the management of patients with diabetes has shifted from symptom-specific treatment to a holistic approach in the overall treatment of soft and hard tissue pathologies presented by the disease. A deeper comprehension of the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, both general and local, can serve as an ally in rendering a “tailored” treatment which not only alleviates the symptoms but treats the underlying cause. This article addresses the generalised effect of hyperglycaemia and its insidious but progressive effect on the dental pulp.

Keywords

• anachoresis
• hyperglycaemia
• pulpal infections
• sensory nerve fibers