Diabetic status of patients presenting for dental treatment

Magister Scientiae Dentium - MSc(Dent) (Community Oral Health)The prevalence of Diabetes mellitus (a non-communicable disease) is increasing worldwide. In 2008, it was declared one of the major non-communicable diseases in South Africa, affecting 4.6% of the population (cited in Pretorius, 2014). Of concern is the large number of people who are undiagnosed and thus present for treatment at a late stage of the disease. This has prompted the need for screening of patients as Diabetes Mellitus has serious immediate and long-term complications