The healing of dental extraction sockets in insulin dependent diabetic patients: a prospective controlled observational study

Abstract

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether there was a difference in delayed healing following dental extractions for insulin‐dependent diabetics as compared to non‐diabetic patients.

Methods

Prospective patients referred to the Adelaide Dental Hospital exodontia clinic for dental extractions were recruited into two groups: Known insulin‐dependent diabetics and healthy non‐diabetics. All had a random blood glucose level (BGL). Delayed healing cases were identified, and statistical evaluation performed.

Results

There were 56 insulin‐dependent diabetic patients (BGL 10.03, range 4.9‐26) and 49 non‐diabetic, age and sex matched, patients. Seven patients (12.5%) in the study group showed delayed healing following extraction, while only four patients (8.2%) in the control group suffered delayed healing. This difference was not statistically significant. Two of the study group developed post extraction infections, requiring incision, drainage, and antibiotics.

Conclusion

The study shows that Type 1 and insulin‐dependent Type 2 diabetic patients, if well controlled, tend to heal up well following dental extractions but with a small but not statistically different rate of post extraction complications including infection. This is contrary to what is usually taught. Clinicians should take great care with management of insulin dependent diabetic patients, as compared to non‐insulin dependent diabetics or non‐diabetic patients.

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