A 29-year-old member asked:

Does a diabetic need to see a periodontist over a regular dentist?

4 doctor answers9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Quang Nguyen
Specializes in Endocrinology
No: If your diabetes is controlled, you should not need to seek specialized dental care.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Greg Rubin
Cosmetic Dentistry 39 years experience
Yes, yes and YES!!!: Diabetes and gums are interconnected. The worth your diabetes gets- your gums will follow... We have been providing specialized dentistry for diabetics for many years with excellent results. Our diabetic patients have healthier gums. There is also research that of your gums are healthier- your sugar blood level will be lower. So- yes, you need to see periodontist or specialized dental center for d.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Dell Goodrick
A Verified Doctor commented
A US doctor answered Learn more
Or minimally, if you are keeping your diabetes maintained and seeing a hygienist at the frequency necessary to maintain your periodontal health.
Sep 18, 2012
Dr. Mark Bornfeld
Dentistry 47 years experience
The word "over" needs to be qualified here. General dentistry and specialty care are not mutually exclusive; they are a collaborative effort.
Sep 19, 2012
Dr. Abel Loredo
General Dentistry 39 years experience
Perio & Diabetes: A general dentists are equally capable to treat gum disease as a periodontist on a diabetic that has good control of his blood sugar levels. When gum disease can not be control by normal root planing, perio maintenance cleanings and improved home care, surgical periodontics may be necessary by a periodontist. Consultation with the patient's physician can help make sure diabetes is under control.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. John Comisi
Dentistry 40 years experience
GP vs. Perio: Patients should be seen by a dental professional. Gp's are as well qualified to help manage the periodontal disease of diabetic patients or any patient for that matter as any periodontist. The key for both the patient and the dentist to work together to manage the disease, with regular periodontal charting, evaluation and routine management designed for each patient.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Similar questions

A 37-year-old member asked:

What's the difference between a periodontist and a regular dentist?

4 doctor answers9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Daniel Wolter
Dentistry 32 years experience
Additional Training: A periodontist has gone through dental school, like other dentists, but then continued with specialized training for an additional 2-3 years. They specialize in diagnosis and treatment of the tissues surrounding teeth...Basically gums and bone. They treat gum disease, place implants, perform oral plastic surgery, and so on. Generally, if you need to see one, your regular dentist will refer you.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Oct 4, 2016
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