Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a common oral complication of diabetes?

1. Gingivitis

2. Dental abscesses

3. Tooth sensitivity

4. Periodontitis

The correct answer is: Tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is primarily associated with a variety of dental issues such as cavities, enamel erosion, and gum recession, rather than being a direct oral complication of diabetes. People with diabetes are more susceptible to conditions that can lead to gum disease, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and dental abscesses, due to factors like poor circulation, altered immune response, and difficulty in managing oral health, all of which can be exacerbated by the disease. In contrast, gingivitis and periodontitis are specifically linked to diabetes progression; they are inflammatory diseases of the gum that can worsen due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Dental abscesses can occur as a result of advanced dental infections that are more likely in those with diabetes, making them common complications in this population. Thus, recognizing tooth sensitivity as less directly related to diabetes highlights the distinct pathophysiological effects that poorly managed blood glucose levels can have on oral health.