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Updated: May 27, 2026

Robust Ligature-Induced Model of Murine Periodontitis for the Evaluation of Oral Neutrophils
Published on: January 21, 2020
Periodontitis and diabetes: a two-way relationship
P M Preshaw1, A L Alba, D Herrera
1School of Dental Sciences and Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BW, UK. p.m.preshaw@ncl.ac.uk
Diabetes significantly increases periodontitis risk and severity. Treating periodontal disease in diabetics improves glycemic control and reduces risks of kidney disease and cardiovascular mortality.
Area of Science:
- Oral Health
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
Background:
- Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease affecting tooth-supporting structures.
- Diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis, with a threefold increased susceptibility.
- A bidirectional relationship exists between periodontitis and diabetes, impacting glycemic control and disease severity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the intricate relationship between periodontitis and diabetes.
- To highlight the impact of periodontal inflammation on glycemic control and diabetes complications.
- To emphasize the importance of oral health in diabetes management.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data linking diabetes and periodontitis.
- Analysis of mechanisms involving immune function, neutrophils, and cytokines.
- Assessment of outcomes related to glycemic control and diabetes-related complications.
Main Results:
- Increased risk and severity of periodontitis in individuals with diabetes, correlated with hyperglycemia.
- Periodontal inflammation negatively affects glycemic control (HbA1c).
- Diabetic individuals with severe periodontitis show increased risks of macroalbuminuria, end-stage renal disease, and cardiorenal mortality.
Conclusions:
- Oral and periodontal health are critical components of comprehensive diabetes management.
- Treating periodontitis in diabetic patients can lead to significant improvements in glycemic control (approx. 0.4% HbA1c reduction).
- Addressing periodontal disease may mitigate severe diabetes complications, including renal and cardiovascular issues.
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