Special Considerations for Children with Diabetes at the Pediatric Dentist

Children with diabetes may have a higher risk of developing gum disease than those without diabetes, so it is important for them to visit a pediatric dentist regularly. Most children with type 1 diabetes mellitus can be treated on an outpatient basis for routine dental care, as long as the necessary precautions are taken during the treatment. The dentist and dental clinic staff should be knowledgeable about how to effectively manage hypoglycemia in diabetic children. Diabetic children need frequent visits to the dentist for early detection and intervention of oral infections. However, greater attention and emphasis should be placed on preventing oral diseases in these patients.