The Relationship of Glycemic Control to the Outcomes of Dental Extractions

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine whether glycemic control influences healing after tooth extractions. We enrolled 115 diabetic patients who required dental extractions in this prospective observer-blinded study. Epithelialization of extraction sites was assessed relative to the patient's history, non-fasting blood glucose levels, and glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Of 115 patients, 78 had 1- and 2-week follow-up data. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of postextraction epithelialization between diabetic patients based on preoperative blood glucose levels, hemoglobin A1c levels, or patient history. Only the size of the extraction site at days 0 and 7 was predictive of future epithelialization. Glycemic control did not influence postextraction healing in diabetic patients. Recommendations for management of the diabetic patient requiring extractions are discussed.