People who fear they have gum disease should not put off having emergency dentistry, as it could provide a vital check for diabetes.
This is according to Scott Navarro, a dental director in New Jersey, who told NJ Today that oral healthcare practitioners could provide an early warning that allows potential diabetics to be on the alert and to get treatment if they need it.
"We've known for a long time that people with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease," he commented.
"It is emerging that periodontal (gum) disease is associated with increased risk for diabetes complications."
According to Diabetes UK, there are 2.8 million people with the condition in Britain, as well as another 500,000 who have it but do not realise.
Last month, Dr Bianca Flora, an oral health specialist in the US, told the CT Post that patients could avoid gum disease and having to have their teeth pulled out via emergency dentistry by getting regular check-ups and appointments with a hygienist.
