The effect of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control in a Hispanic population with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial
(Journal of Clinical Periodontology; doi: 10.1111/jcpe.12268)
Isabel C Gay, Duong T Tran, Adriana C Cavender, Robin Weltman, Jennifer Chang, Estelle Luckenbach, Gena D Tribble
People with diabetes may wonder whether treating gum disease can also lower blood glucose. A trial can compare treatment with usual advice to help separate the effects of dental care from other changes.
Researchers randomly allocated 154 Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes and moderate-to-severe periodontitis to cleaning below the gums plus oral hygiene education, or education alone. They assessed gum health and HbA1c, a measure of average blood glucose. The main glucose comparison was at four months, and 126 participants completed the study.
Professional treatment produced clearer improvements in gum pocket depth, bleeding and the support around teeth than education alone. Average HbA1c fell by 0.6 percentage points in the treatment group and 0.3 percentage points in the comparison group. However, the difference was not statistically clear. The researchers also found no clear relationship between the amount of gum improvement and the change in HbA1c.
The study supports treating periodontitis for its benefits to gum health. It does not establish an additional blood glucose benefit in this group. An improvement in gum health remains worthwhile even if your HbA1c stays the same. Dental care should be coordinated with your usual diabetes treatment, rather than judged only by its effect on glucose readings.
The most useful comparison is the difference between the treatment groups, rather than improvement within just one group. Results also depend on who took part, the comparison care and how long people were followed. A statistically uncertain difference does not prove two approaches are identical. Equally, a clear difference in a measurement may not show a lasting benefit for tooth retention or general health. These findings need to be considered alongside other trials and your individual clinical needs when discussing treatment choices.
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Periodontitis is the 6th most prevalent condition globally
Periodontitis and diabetes are bidirectionally linked
Diabetic complications are increased if you have both diseases
Successful periodontal treatment can improve blood glucose control
Periodontitis is the 6th most prevalent condition globally
Periodontitis and diabetes are bidirectionally linked
Diabetic complications are increased if you have both diseases
Successful periodontal treatment can improve blood glucose control
