Periodontal disease and oral hygiene habits in a type 2 diabetic population

Periodontal disease is a serious oral health problem that is observed in patients with diabetes mellitus. The aim of the present study is to observe the oral health condition in a diabetic type 2 population in connection with glycaemic control and lifestyle.

A questionnaire was distributed to 118 patients in a centre for diabetics to collect information, such as date of birth, year of onset of diabetes, diabetic parameters, pharmacological therapy and oral hygiene habits. An oral examination was conducted to evaluate the presence of plaque, calculus, tooth mobility, caries and gingivitis. In a sub-group scaling and root planning (SRP) was completed.

Thirty-one of 118 patients were edentulous and were excluded from the main analysis. Nearly 60% of patients presented dental plaque and gingivitis. A statistically significant difference in patients with or without a glycaemic control was only observed in women. Patients treated with SRP had significant better oral health and a slight reduction of HbA1c.

Poor oral health care was observed in the diabetic population. The high risk of periodontal disease needs the attention of dental hygienist.