Awareness about the Bidirectional Relationship of Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontal Diseases among the Diabetic Patients

Abstract

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder that results in hyperglycemia, which damages several organs over time, including the kidneys, heart, eyes, nerves, and vascular system, which includes the periodontium. Diabetes increases the risk of periodontitis, and periodontal inflammation negatively affects glycemic control. Diabetes has a detrimental effect on periodontal diseases, increasing its prevalence, extent and severity. Severe periodontitis is associated with compromised glycemic control in diabetic patients. Considering this established bidirectional relationship, the present study is undertaken. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge about the bidirectional relationship of diabetes mellitus and periodontal diseases among the diabetic patients. Data was collected in the form of a questionnaire from the 61 patients with type II diabetes visiting the Department of Periodontology, Rural Dental College and Hospital, Loni and willing to participate in the study. The present study concluded that patients are unaware regarding the bidirectional relationship of diabetes mellitus and periodontal diseases and should be educated by medical and dental practitioners for the comprehensive management of both the conditions.