Histological changes in dental pulp of diabetes mellitus (Type II)

Purpose: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is the commonest form of diabetes. The common complications associated with DM are retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, microvascular disease, infection and impaired wound healing. The relationship between oral health and diabetes has been extensively studied, particularly with respect to periodontal disease, but effect of diabetes mellitus on dental pulp is less documented in the literature. This study aims to explore the relationship between the dental pulp and diabetes mellitus by histological analysis, which in turn will widen the horizon of diagnosis and treatment planning of such conditions. Materials and Methods: A pilot study was conducted on 20 patients. 10 teeth were extracted from study group and the control group, employing intra-alveolar technique. Teeth were sectioned at apical third and subjected for histological procedure. The teeth were decalcified, processed and sections were stained. Results: Study group showed thickened basement membrane blood vessels (60%) and pulp stones (40%). Conclusion: Human dental pulp of type 2 diabetic patient revealed impairment of vasculature, which in turn interferes with tissue nutrition, pulpal repair, and creates a microaerophilic state for anaerobic development.