Diabetic status of patients presenting for dental treatment
Abstract
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.