"Oral health symptoms of diabetics include dry mouth, periodontal (gum) disease, oral infections, cavities and delayed wound healing," says Robert E. Rada, DDS, MBA, co-author of the study.

When salivary glands do not work properly, dry mouth occurs, which leads to decay and other oral health problems. Diabetics can prevent dry mouth by increasing water intake, chewing sugarless gum and visiting a dentist regularly for personalized treatment options.

Also, diabetics have an increased risk for developing periodontal disease, a result from gingivitis. Bacteria in plaque can cause inflamed gums, which can destroy tissues surrounding the teeth, gum and bone.

"Most of the time periodontal disease is treatable. I suggest patients get their diabetes and diet under control and visit the dentist more frequently for proper cleanings," says Eric Shapira, DDS, MAGD, and AGD spokesperson.

Wound healing time is another major concern for diabetics because of elevated blood sugar levels. "Gum disease, sores-everything will heal slower for patients with diabetes. Dentists may prescribe antibiotics to speed up healing time if needed," says Dr. Rada.

Make morning appointments because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at this time of day. Dental procedures should be as short and as stress free as possible.

Patients that have a scheduled appointment should eat and take medications as directed. In addition, it is best to follow a normal daily routine and stay relaxed to prevent a hypoglycemic reaction.

If blood sugar is not under control, a patient should talk with both their dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care.

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Kloner is a professor in the division of cardiovascular medicine in the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, and director of research at the Heart Institute at Good Samaritan Hospital. In his editorial, he wrote that the research is now definitive and includes nationwide data over a longer period.

Kloner suggested that overindulgence, emotional stress and respiratory problems could also lead to more deaths. The increased use of fireplaces during the holidays may lead to increased inhalation of airborne particulate matter.

People and healthcare providers can be prudent during the holiday season to help diminish this phenomenon, Kloner said. Consumers should seek professional help immediately if they have cardiac symptoms, and they should try to see their usual health care providers, he said.

In response to this trend in increased death rates, Kloner said, Coronary care units and emergency wards should be adequately staffed for the potential increase in patients.

Alice Jacobs, M.D., president of the American Heart Association, said these tips can help keep your heart healthy during the holidays:

Don ™t skip regular appointments because of the holidays.  Reschedule if you need to. Stick to your healthy habits through the holidays, and help your family do the same. Be sure you have enough of your usual medications to allow for holiday business/pharmacy closings and travel. Check out the medical facilities where you ™ll be traveling.  Ask your physician who you could see if you need a doctor away from home. If you have symptoms, don ™t ignore them.

Co-authors with Phillips are Jason R. Jarvinen, B.A.; Ian S. Abramson, Ph.D.; and Rosalie R. Phillips, M.P.H.

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