Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which statement regarding dental disease and diabetes is false?

1. Treatment of periodontal disease reduces A1c

2. Children with diabetes have more dental caries

3. Elevated glucose increases periodontal disease severity

4. Certain medications may contribute to tooth decay

The correct answer is: Children with diabetes have more dental caries

The statement regarding dental disease and diabetes that is considered false is that children with diabetes have more dental caries. Research indicates that while individuals with diabetes, particularly if poorly controlled, may experience various oral health issues, the prevalence of dental caries is not necessarily higher in children with diabetes compared to their non-diabetic peers. Multiple factors influence the incidence of dental caries, including overall dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and access to dental care, regardless of diabetes status. It's also important to consider that children with diabetes may be more closely monitored for their oral health, which might affect the reported incidence of caries. In contrast, the other statements reflect recognized associations in healthcare. For example, treatment of periodontal disease has been shown to have a beneficial effect on glycemic control, leading to reductions in A1c levels for individuals with diabetes. Furthermore, elevated glucose levels can worsen periodontal disease due to increased susceptibility to infection and inflammation. Finally, certain medications, especially those that cause dry mouth, can contribute to tooth decay by reducing saliva, which plays a crucial role in oral health.