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This study was undertaken to compare the bone density in nondiabetic and controlled type II diabetes patients using spiral computed tomography. A group of 40 edentulous men, comprising of 20 nondiabetics and 20 controlled type II diabetics between the ages of 50-65 years, were enrolled in the study. Glycemic control of the diabetic patients was assessed by glycosylated hemoglobin level. The controlled diabetic group had an HbA1c level between 6.1-8%. A radiographic stent was prepared by using chemically cured resin. Bone densities at trabecular, buccal, and lingual cortical regions of maxillary and mandibular edentulous arches were measured by a tomography machine. Mean bone density measurements were recorded in Hounsfield units. The data thus obtained from 10 sites of maxillary and mandibular arches were tabulated and analyzed using SPSS statistical software. This study showed no significant changes in bone density between the controlled diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. Within the limitation of this study, it can be concluded that bone density does not seem to be affected in controlled type II diabetics.

The importance of the first molar in the development of occlusion is well-known. The difficulties when first molar is not there during the eruption of the second molar and the premolar don't have to be explained much. The construction of a space maintainer in the area of missing first molar is difficult when seven and five are not erupted. The article highlights a case where a grossly decayed first molar with repeated endodontic failures was treated by intentional extraction and replantation as a last resort. A follow-up along with indications and considerations are documented.

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