Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontal Disease among Undergraduate Dental Students: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory infection of the gums and bone supporting the teeth, while diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar. They share a bidirectional, two-way relationship: uncontrolled diabetes increases the severity of gum disease, while severe gum disease makes managing blood sugar harder. Aim: To assess the knowledge of diabetes mellitus, periodontal disease, and their bidirectional relationship among undergraduate dental students. Methodology: A study using a cross-sectional questionnaire was carried out with undergraduate students from different academic fields. Demographic information, knowledge of diabetes mellitus, awareness of periodontal disease, comprehension of the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease, and oral health practices were all evaluated using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Informed consent was obtained from each participant, and participation was entirely optional. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 142 undergraduate dental students at Adhiparasakthi Dental College and Hospital. Results: The overall mean knowledge score was 13.59 ± 3.72. Knowledge scores increased significantly with advancing academic year (F = 9.07, p < 0.001). A study using a cross-sectional questionnaire was carried out with undergraduate students from different academic fields. Demographic information, knowledge of diabetes mellitus, awareness of periodontal disease, comprehension of the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease, and oral health practices were all evaluated using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Informed consent was obtained from each participant, and participation was entirely optional. Interns demonstrated the highest mean score (14.88 ± 3.04), while first-year students showed the lowest (10.71 ± 4.27). Conclusion: Education links between diabetes and periodontal disease improve early early diagnosis, patient safety, chronic disease control and it transforms dentistry into a systemic health partner. Early curriculum integration of systemic–oral health concepts may further enhance competency.