Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontitis: Bidirectional Relationship

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis hold a close relationship that has been the focus of many researches. Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease characterised by destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. Evidences stated that diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis; susceptibility to periodontitis is increased by approximately threefold in people with diabetes. There is a clear relationship between degree of hyperglycaemia and severity of periodontitis. The mechanisms that underpin the links between these two conditions are not completely understood, but involve aspects of immune functioning, neutrophil activity, and cytokine biology. There is emerging evidence to support the existence of a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis, with diabetes increasing the risk for periodontitis, and periodontal inflammation negatively affecting glycaemic control. Oral and periodontal health should be promoted as integral components of diabetes management.