Most people go for a dental checkup for the simple reason of getting their overall oral health looked at and perhaps a professional cleaning done. But did you know, that by getting a dental checkup, can also tell you if you are becoming a diabetic? Well it can! A recent study by Columbia University College of Dental Medicine found that a pre-diabetes determination can be made by simply going to the dentist.
Columbia’s study looked at approximately 530 adults with at least one diabetes risk factor (family history of diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, or obesity). Each patient received a periodontal examination and a finger-stick, hemoglobin A1c test. Patients later returned for a fasting plasma glucose test, to show whether they have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Researchers found that a basic algorithm of only two dental parameters (the number of missing teeth and percentage of deep periodontal pockets) was necessary to identify patients with unrecognized pre-diabetes or diabetes. The addition of the hemoglobin A1c test further improved the algorithm’s performance.
This study will vastly improve the prevention of Type 2 diabetes. Periodontal disease, which is an early complication of diabetes can be identified by a simple Gentle Dental checkup. To make an appointment today, call 1-888-513-7436.
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