Short-term responses to periodontal therapy in insulin-dependent diabetic patients

Management of periodontal disease in patients with diabetes- good clinical practice guidelines: A joint statement by Indian Society of Periodontology and Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India

There is a huge body of literature suggesting an association and a bidirectional relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes. Diabetes and periodontal diseases are both chronic diseases with a high prevalence. Dentists/periodontists, in their daily clinical practice, very often attend to diabetes patients with diverse oral health conditions and cater to their dental treatment needs. Safe and effective periodontal therapy in this population requires a broad understanding of diabetes, medical management of diabetes, and essential modifications to dental/periodontal therapy that may be required. This paper describes a joint statement put forth by the Indian Society of Periodontology and the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India aiming to provide expert consensus and evidence-based guidelines for optimal clinical management of periodontal conditions in diabetes patients or patients at risk for diabetes. Although this paper is not envisioned to be a comprehensive review of this topic, it intends to provide the guidelines for dental professionals and periodontists.

A study on the change in HbA1c levels before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy in type-2 diabetes mellitus in generalized periodontitis

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate and investigate changes in HbA1c levels before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients with generalized periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

A statistically significant number of type-2 diabetes mellitus subjects diagnosed with chronic generalized periodontitis were included in the study. The selected subjects were randomly allocated to 2 groups. Group 1: Control group: Subjects who received only scaling and root planning. Group 2: Test group: Subjects received antibiotic coverage with non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planning). Clinical parameters included plaque index, gingival index, PRO MIG pocket depth, and clinical attachment level. In addition, the metabolic parameters were recorded at the same time intervals, which included fasting blood sugar, random blood sugar, and HbA1c levels.

Statistical Analysis:

ANOVA test was applied to the parameters.

Results:

HbA1c more significantly reduced by test group compared to the other group. Conclusion: there is definitely a positive effect of nonsurgical on HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus. This point levels significantly reduced after conventional non-surgical periodontal therapy.

Conclusion:

There is definitely a positive effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy on HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetes patients with chronic periodontitis.

Comparison of glycated hemoglobin levels in individuals without diabetes and with and without periodontitis before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy

BACKGROUND

Only a few studies have examined the association between periodontitis and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in individuals without diabetes. The aim of this study is to compare HbA1c levels in individuals without diabetes and with and without periodontitis before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy.

METHODS

This comparative study was done on individuals without diabetes who were 35 to 65 years old. Group A consisted of 30 individuals without periodontitis, and group B consisted of 30 individuals with periodontitis. Body mass indices and clinical parameters, including oral hygiene index-simplified (OHI-S) score, gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and HbA1c level, of all participants were recorded. All participants received non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing). After 3 months, all participants were reexamined, and clinical parameters and HbA1c levels were evaluated and compared to baseline values.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between group A and group B in regard to baseline OHI-S, GI, PD, and HbA1c (P <0.05). There was no clinical attachment loss in group A, either at baseline or after 3 months. At the end of 3 months, group B showed improvement in all clinical parameters (P <0.05) and their HbA1c levels also significantly decreased (P <0.05), although the values never reached those of group A.

CONCLUSION

The HbA1c levels of individuals without diabetes and with periodontitis (group B) were significantly reduced 3 months after non-surgical periodontal therapy, although they never reached the same levels as those of the individuals without diabetes or periodontitis (group A).

Relationship between diabetes and periodontal infection

Periodontal disease is a high prevalent disease. In the United States 47.2% of adults ≥ 30 years old have been diagnosed with some type of periodontitis. Longitudinal studies have demonstrated a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis, with more severe periodontal tissue destruction in diabetic patients and poorer glycemic control in diabetic subjects with periodontal disease. Periodontal treatment can be successful in diabetic patients. Short term effects of periodontal treatment are similar in diabetic patients and healthy population but, more recurrence of periodontal disease can be expected in no well controlled diabetic individuals. However, effects of periodontitis and its treatment on diabetes metabolic control are not clearly defined and results of the studies remain controversial.

Impact of scaling and root planing on clinical periodontal status and glycemic levels in prediabetic patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess the effect of scaling and root planing (SRP) on clinical periodontal parameters and glycemic levels in prediabetic patients.

METHODS

Fifty prediabetic patients with periodontal disease were included. Demographic data (age, gender, education status, duration of prediabetes, type of treatment adopted for prediabetes management, and oral hygiene maintenance protocols) were recorded using a questionnaire. Patients were randomly divided into two groups (25 patients/group). In Group 1, SRP alone was performed, in Group 2, SRP + oral doxycycline (100 mg) administration. In both groups, fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and periodontal parameters (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP], and probing depth [PD]) were assessed at baseline and after 6 months. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Age, gender, and duration and treatment of prediabetes were comparable among patients in Groups 1 and 2. PI, BOP, and PD significantly reduced in both groups than baseline values. Reduction in periodontal parameters among Groups 1 and 2 were comparable. There was no significant reduction in FBG levels among patients in Groups 1 and 2 after 6 months of SRP.

CONCLUSION

SRP was effective in reducing periodontal inflammation in prediabetic patients. FBG levels did not show any significant difference after SRP in both groups.

Effects of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on clinical response, microbiological profile, and glycemic control in Malaysian subjects with type 1 diabetes

The association between diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontal disease has long been established. Most of the researches linking these two very common chronic diseases were based on type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontal disease. However, this study was conducted to investigate the association between type 1 diabetes and chronic periodontal disease in Malaysian subjects. Forty-one Malaysian subjects, of which 20 subjects were type 1 diabetics and with chronic periodontal disease (test group) and 21 subjects with only chronic periodontal disease (control group), were included in the study. Periodontal parameters and plaque samples for microbiological evaluation were done at baseline, 2 and 3 months after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Blood samples were taken from only the test group and evaluated for HbA1c at baseline and 3 months after periodontal therapy. There were no statistically significant difference in periodontal parameters between groups (P>0.05) and no significant improvement in the level of HbA1c in the test group. Microbiological studies indicated that there were significant reductions in the levels of the tested pathogens in both groups. The results of our study were similar to the findings of several other studies that had been done previously.

Microbiological changes after periodontal therapy in diabetic patients with inadequate metabolic control

The present study investigated the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment (SRP) on the composition of the subgingival microbiota of chronic periodontitis (CP) in individuals with type 2 diabetes (DM2) with inadequate metabolic control and in systemically healthy (SH) individuals. Forty individuals (20 DM2 and 20 SH) with CP underwent full-mouth periodontal examination. Subgingival plaque was sampled from 4 deep sites of each individual and tested for mean prevalence and counts of 45 bacterial taxa by the checkerboard method. Clinical and microbiological assessments were performed before and 3 months after SRP. At baseline, those in the DM2 group presented a significantly higher percentage of sites with visible plaque and bleeding on probing compared with those in the SH group (p<0.01). Those in the DM2 group presented significantly higher levels of C. rectus and P. gingivalis, and lower prevalence of P. micra and S. anginosus, compared with those in the SH group (p≤0.001). At the 3-month visit, both groups showed a significant improvement in all clinical parameters (p<0.01). Those in the DM2 group showed significantly higher prevalence and/or levels of A. gerencseriae, A. naeslundii I, A. oris, A. odontolyticus, C. sputigena, F. periodonticum, and G. morbillorum compared with those in the SH group (p≤0.001). However, those in the DM2 group showed a significant reduction in the levels of P. intermedia, P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, and T. denticola (p≤0.001) over time. Those in the SRP group showed improved periodontal status and reduced levels of putative periodontal pathogens at 3 months' evaluation compared with those in the DM2 group with inadequate metabolic control.

Effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy (with or without oral doxycycline delivery) on glycemic status and clinical periodontal parameters in patients with prediabetes: a short-term longitudinal randomized case-control study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present short-term longitudinal randomized case-control study was to assess the effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) (with and without oral doxycycline delivery) on glycemic status and clinical periodontal parameters in patients with prediabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty-six patients with prediabetes and periodontal disease were included. Characteristics of the study cohort (age, gender, socioeconomic status [SES] education status, duration of prediabetes, and type of treatment adopted for prediabetes management) were recorded. Patients were randomly divided into two groups (33 patients/group). In group 1, scaling and root planing (SRP) was performed, and in group-2, patients underwent SRP and oral doxycycline (100 mg) administration once daily for 15 days. In each group, the following parameters were investigated at baseline and after 3 months: (a) fasting blood glucose level (FBGL), (b) hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and (c) periodontal parameters (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP], probing depth [PD], and clinical attachment loss [AL]). Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t test.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in age, gender, SES, education status, and duration and treatment of prediabetes among individuals in groups 1 and 2. Three months post-NSPT, FBGL and HbA1c were significantly reduced among patients in group 1 (P < 0.05) and group 2 (P < 0.05) compared to baseline. Three months post-NSPT, PI (P < 0.05), BOP (P < 0.05), and PD (P < 0.05) were significantly reduced among patients in group 1 (P < 0.05) and group 2 (P < 0.05) compared to baseline. There was no difference in clinical AL between the groups after 3 months of NSPT.

CONCLUSION

NSPT (with and without oral doxycycline delivery) reduces hyperglycemia and periodontal inflammation in patients with prediabetes.

Effect of scaling and root planing combined with systemic doxycycline therapy on glycemic control in diabetes mellitus subjects with chronic generalized periodontitis: a clinical study

PURPOSE

The purpose of study was to compare glycemic control using glycated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c) in diabetic patients with chronic generalized periodontitis (CGP) undergoing scaling and root planing (SRP) with and without systemic doxycycline.

METHODS

Fifty subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and CGP receiving antidiabetic therapy were selected for study. The selected subjects were randomly assigned to two groups (test group [TG] and control group [CG]) comprising 25 patients each. The TG received SRP followed by systemic doxycycline. The CG received treatment with SRP only. The periodontal parameters were recorded at baseline (day zero), and every 1 month for 4 months and included probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index, gingival index, and HbA1c level were recorded at baseline (day zero) and at the end of 4 months.

RESULTS

A statistically significant effect was demonstrated for the periodontal parameters for both the TG and CG. HbA1c values did not show a statistically significant difference in the treatment group as compared to the CG.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors concluded that nonsurgical periodontal therapy improved glycemic control in patients with T2DM in both groups, but no statistical difference was observed with adjunctive systemic doxycycline therapy. A further study with a larger sample size is required.

Periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus

Periodontal disease (PD) is one of the most commonly known human chronic disorders. The relationship between PD and several systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus (DM) has been increasingly recognized over the past decades.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to provide the reader with knowledge concerning the relationship between PD and DM. Many articles have been published in the English and Portuguese literature over the last 50 years examining the relationship between these two chronic diseases. Data interpretation is often confounded by varying definitions of DM, PD and different clinical criteria were applied to determine the prevalence, extent and severity of PD, levels of glycemic control and diabetes-related complications.

METHODS

This paper provides a broad overview of the predominant findings from research conducted using the BBO (Bibliografia Brasileira de Odontologia), MEDLINE, LILACS and PubMed for Controlled Trials databases, in English and Portuguese languages published from 1960 to October 2012. Primary research reports on investigations of relationships between DM/DM control, PD/periodontal treatment and PD/DM/diabetes-related complications identified relevant papers and meta-analyses published in this period.

RESULTS

This paper describes the relationship between PD and DM and answers the following questions: 1- The effect of DM on PD, 2- The effects of glycemic control on PD and 3- The effects of PD on glycemic control and on diabetes-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The scientific evidence reviewed supports diabetes having an adverse effect on periodontal health and PD having an adverse effect on glycemic control and on diabetes-related complications. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships and larger, prospective, controlled trials with ethnically diverse populations are warranted to establish that treating PD can positively influence glycemic control and possibly reduce the burden of diabetes-related complications.

Reduction in HbA1c levels following non-surgical periodontal therapy in type-2 diabetic patients with chronic generalized periodontitis: A periodontist's role

Background:

Aim of the study was to compare the response to non-surgical periodontal therapy between patients with and without type-2 diabetes from clinical and metabolic stand point.

Materials and Methods:

A comparative clinical study was performed between type 2 diabetics and non-diabetics with moderate generalized chronic periodontitis. The study period was six months. Conventional periodontal scaling and root planing were performed, and the response to this treatment was compared between the groups at three and six months, measuring the plaque index, bleeding index, gingival index, and probing depth. In diabetic patients, the clinical response was related to measurements of HbA1c and glucose in blood at three and six months.

Statistical Analysis:

Multi Variant Analysis of Variance was used to compare following variables between groups and function of time.

Results:

Improvement in all clinical variables was observed in both the groups. The improvement observed in blood HbA1c levels in diabetic group confirmed a positive metabolic response to non-surgical periodontal treatment.

Conclusion:

With this study, we conclude that there is a definite reduction in HbA1c level in diabetic patients after conventional non-surgical periodontal treatment.

Effect of locally delivered tetracycline hydrochloride as an adjunct to scaling and root planing on Hba1c, C-reactive protein, and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes: A clinico-biochemical study

AIM

The aim was to assess the levels of HbA1c, C-reactive protein, and lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by treating the pockets using collagen impregnated sustained release resorbable tetracycline fiber (periodontal plus AB fiber) following scaling and root planing (SRP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 40 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomly distributed into two groups receiving either SRP and tetracycline fiber or SRP alone. Patients were evaluated clinically with gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, and relative attachment level, and bio-chemically with HbA1c, C Reactive Protein, and lipid profile at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months.

RESULTS

Significant reduction in all the clinical parameters was seen in the tetracycline group compared to the control group. Bio-chemical analysis also revealed similar results except for cholesterol and High density lipoprotein who did not show any significant reduction.

CONCLUSION

Locally delivered tetracycline as a better treatment modality compared to SRP alone.

Evaluation of subgingival microflora in diabetic and nondiabetic patients

The present investigation was designed with the aim of studying the microbiota of diabetic patients-both insulin dependent and noninsulin dependent and nondiabetic individuals. Each of the three groups had 15 patients, coming under the age group of 35 to 55 years and all having periodontitis. Even though the microbial flora are almost the same, specific microorganisms may not be predisposing cause for the periodontal disease process in diabetics. The study is clinically significant by means of its implication in the treatment of bacterial infections related to periodontitis and in those patients who are having systemic diseases, like diabetes along with poor periodontal condition and infections.

The effect of full-mouth tooth extraction on glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes requiring extraction of all remaining teeth: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Several studies have shown that periodontitis can complicate the severity of diabetes by worsening the degree of glycemic control. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of full-mouth tooth extraction on glycemic control among type 2 diabetic patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 58 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and advanced periodontitis who were requiring extraction of all remaining teeth were randomized consecutively into treatment (full-mouth tooth extraction) and control groups (no treatment). Eight patients were lost to follow-up or reported use of antibiotics, leaving 50 patients to be included in the analysis. All patients had all their remaining teeth in a hopeless condition. Relevant data were collected, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c) ) and fasting blood glucose levels were measured at baseline and at follow-up times of 3 and 6 mo.

RESULTS

At baseline, the mean (SD) HbA(1c) level was 8.6% (1.24) in the treatment group and 7.7% (0.87) in the control group. In the treatment group, the mean HbA(1c) level decreased significantly from 8.6% at baseline to 7.4% after 3 mo of denture treatment, and continued to decrease to 7.3% after 6 mo. In the control group, the mean HbA(1c) decreased from 7.7% at baseline to 7.5% after 3 mo, and remained almost the same after 6 mo. After adjusting for the baseline HbA(1c) , the mean reduction in HbA(1c) after 3 mo in the treatment group [1.23% (0.79)] was significantly higher than the mean reduction in the control group [0.28% (0.87)].

CONCLUSION

Full-mouth tooth extraction resulted in an improvement in glycemic control among diabetic patients. Large-scale multicentre clinical trials are needed to confirm the current evidence.

Treatment of periodontal disease for glycaemic control in people with diabetes

BACKGROUND

Glycaemic control is a key issue in the care of people with diabetes mellitus (DM). Some studies have suggested a bidirectional relationship between glycaemic control and periodontal disease.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between periodontal therapy and glycaemic control in people with diabetes and to identify the appropriate future strategy for this question.

SEARCH STRATEGY

A comprehensive approach was adopted employing handsearching; searching of electronic databases including the Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ZETOC, ISI Web of Knowledge and LILACS; contact with appropriate non-English language healthcare professionals; authors and organisations. The final date for searching for studies was 24th March 2010.

SELECTION CRITERIA

This review studied randomised controlled trials of people with Type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) with a diagnosis of periodontitis. Suitable interventions included mechanical periodontal therapy with or without adjunctives and oral hygiene education.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The titles and abstracts of 690 papers were examined by two review authors independently. Ultimately, seven studies were included and 19 excluded after full text scrutiny. All trials were assessed for risk of bias.

MAIN RESULTS

Three studies had results pooled into a meta-analysis. The effect for the mean percentage difference in HbA1c for scaling/root planing and oral hygiene (+/- antibiotic therapy) versus no treatment/usual treatment after 3/4 months was -0.40% (95% confidence interval (CI) fixed effect -0.78% to -0.01%), representing a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c (P = 0.04) for scaling/root planing. One study was assessed as being at low risk of bias with the other two at moderate to high risk of bias. A subgroup analysis examined studies without adjunctive antibiotics -0.80% (one study: 95% CI -1.73% to 0.13%; P = 0.09), with adjunctive antibiotics in the test group -0.36% (one study: 95% CI -0.83% to 0.11%; P = 0.14), and with antibiotics in both test and control groups after 3/4 months -0.15% (one study: 95% CI -1.04% to 0.74%; P = 0.74).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is some evidence of improvement in metabolic control in people with diabetes, after treating periodontal disease. There are few studies available and individually these lacked the power to detect a significant effect. Most of the participants in the study had poorly controlled Type 2 DM with little data from randomised trials on the effects on people with Type 1 DM.Improving periodontal health is an important objective in itself. However, in order to understand the potential of this treatment to improve glycaemic control among people with diabetes, larger, carefully conducted and reported studies are needed.

The effect of intensive oral hygiene care on gingivitis and periodontal destruction in type 2 diabetic patients

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of oral hygiene care by oral professionals on periodontal health in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetic participants were recruited at a university hospital and matched at a 1:1 ratio by age and gender, and randomly allocated into intervention (40 people) and control groups (35 people). Tooth brushing instruction, oral health education, and supra-gingival scaling were implemented in all patients at baseline. This program was repeatedly conducted in intervention patients every month for 6 months, and twice at baseline and the sixth month in the control. Oral health was measured by decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), plaque index, calculus index, bleeding index, patient hygiene performance (PHP) index, tooth mobility, Russel's periodontal index, and community periodontal index (CPI). Diabetes-related factors, oral and general health behaviors, and sociodemographic factors were interviewed as other confounding factors. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used with SPSS for Windows 14.0.

RESULTS

At baseline, there were no significant differences between the two groups in average of periodontal health (calculus index, bleeding index, Russel's periodontal index, CPI, and tooth mobility), diabetes-related factors (fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c), and in distribution of sociodemographic factors and health behaviors. In intervention group, plaque index, dental calculus index, bleeding index, and PHP index were reduced fairly and steadily from the baseline. There were significant differences in plaque index, dental calculus index, bleeding index, PHP index, and Russel's periodontal index between the two groups at sixth month after adjusted for baseline status.

CONCLUSION

Intensive oral hygiene care can persistently improve oral inflammation status and could slow periodontal deterioration.

Multi-center intervention study on glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) and serum, high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) after local anti-infectious periodontal treatment in type 2 diabetic patients with periodontal disease

The purpose of this study was to examine whether periodontal treatment incorporating topical antibiotic therapy affects on levels of glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in type 2 diabetic patients with periodontal disease, and to explore the relationship between CRP and glycemic control. The whole intervention group (n=32), which underwent anti-infectious periodontal treatment, showed only transient reduction in HbA1c levels without any change in hs-CRP, while the control group (n=17) did not show any changes in HbA1c or hs-CRP. Multiple regression analysis of all subjects revealed that BMI and change in hs-CRP correlated significantly with the reduction of HbA1c at 6 months after the periodontal treatment. Based on the results of multiple regression analysis, the intervention group was subdivided into two groups: those in which hs-CRP levels decreased (CRP-D group), and those in which hs-CRP levels unchanged or increased (CRP-N group) (n=16, respectively), and re-analysis was conducted based upon these subgroups. In the CRP-D subgroup, HbA1c was significantly reduced at the end of the study, but it did not decrease in the CRP-N subgroup. The decrease of HbA1c in the CRP-D subgroup following periodontal treatment was significantly greater than that in the CRP-N subgroup. BMI of each group remained unchanged in this study at the end of the study. Thus, the results suggested that periodontal treatment with topical antibiotics improves HbA1c through reduction of CRP, which may relate to amelioration of insulin resistance, in type 2 diabetic patients with periodontal disease.

Efficacy of periodontal treatment on glycaemic control in diabetic patients: A meta-analysis of interventional studies

AIM

There is growing evidence that periodontal disease may favour the incidence or aggravation of diabetes and its complications. To investigate the issue, we conducted a meta-analysis of the effect of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control in diabetic patients.

METHODS

A literature search was carried out using seven databases (Medline, EMBASE, LILACS, The Cochrane Library, Pascal, IADR Abstracts and Current Contents), with no language restrictions. We followed the QUOROM-recommended standards for improving the quality of reporting meta-analyses of interventional studies.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies, involving 976 subjects altogether, were included in the present systematic review. Of these, nine studies, involving a total of 485 patients, were controlled trials and were included in the meta-analysis. The standardized mean difference in HbA(1c) with the treatment of periodontal disease was 0.46 (95% CI: 0.11, 0.82). These findings suggest that periodontal treatment could lead to a significant 0.79% (95% CI: 0.19, 1.40) reduction in HbA(1c) level.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis represents the best information available to date that addresses this issue, and suggests that periodontal treatment could improve glycaemic control. Nevertheless, these results need to be viewed with caution because of a lack of robustness, and deficiencies in the design of some of the studies included. A randomized controlled trial with sufficient statistical power would help to confirm the results of this meta-analysis.

Periodontal disease: associations with diabetes, glycemic control and complications

OBJECTIVE

This report reviews the evidence for adverse effects of diabetes on periodontal health and periodontal disease on glycemic control and complications of diabetes.

DESIGN

MEDLINE search of the English language literature identified primary research reports published on (a) relationships between diabetes and periodontal diseases since 2000 and (b) effects of periodontal infection on glycemic control and diabetes complications since 1960.

RESULTS

Observational studies provided consistent evidence of greater prevalence, severity, extent, or progression of at least one manifestation of periodontal disease in 13/17 reports reviewed. Treatment and longitudinal observational studies provided evidence to support periodontal infection having an adverse effect on glycemic control, although not all investigations reported an improvement in glycemic control after periodontal treatment. Additionally, evidence from three observational studies supported periodontal disease increasing the risk for diabetes complications and no published reports refuted the findings.

CONCLUSION

The evidence reviewed supports diabetes having an adverse effect on periodontal health and periodontal infection having an adverse effect on glycemic control and incidence of diabetes complications. Further rigorous study is necessary to establish unequivocally that treating periodontal infections can contribute to glycemic control management and to the reduction of the burden of diabetes complications.

The effect of periodontal treatment on metabolic control of type 1 diabetes mellitus

The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of nonsurgical periodontal treatment, with or without systemic administration of doxycycline, on the metabolic control of patients with type 1 diabetes. Sixty type 1 diabetic subjects with moderate to severe periodontitis were recruited. Periodontal parameters were measured, and blood samples were obtained to evaluate glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Group 1 (30 patients) was treated with scaling, root planning, and chlorhexidine rinses for 3 months in conjunction with systemic administration of doxycycline (100 mg once a day for 15 days). Group 2 (30 patients) received the same periodontal treatment but without the use of doxycycline. The paired Student t-test was used to detect differences between glycosylated hemoglobin means before and 3 months after periodontal treatment in group 1 and group 2 separately. Changes in mean HbA1c after treatment were 0.07% in group 1 and -0.06% in group 2, which were not statistically significant after 3 months. Significant changes were not found even in patients with the best response to periodontal treatment. Periodontal treatment in type 1 diabetic patients after 3 months follow-up did not improve metabolic control of diabetes as measured by glycosylated hemoglobin.

The effect of periodontal treatment on metabolic control of type 1 diabetes mellitus

The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of nonsurgical periodontal treatment, with or without systemic administration of doxycycline, on the metabolic control of patients with type 1 diabetes. Sixty type 1 diabetic subjects with moderate to severe periodontitis were recruited. Periodontal parameters were measured, and blood samples were obtained to evaluate glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Group 1 (30 patients) was treated with scaling, root planning, and chlorhexidine rinses for 3 months in conjunction with systemic administration of doxycycline (100 mg once a day for 15 days). Group 2 (30 patients) received the same periodontal treatment but without the use of doxycycline. The paired Student t-test was used to detect differences between glycosylated hemoglobin means before and 3 months after periodontal treatment in group 1 and group 2 separately. Changes in mean HbA1c after treatment were 0.07% in group 1 and -0.06% in group 2, which were not statistically significant after 3 months. Significant changes were not found even in patients with the best response to periodontal treatment. Periodontal treatment in type 1 diabetic patients after 3 months follow-up did not improve metabolic control of diabetes as measured by glycosylated hemoglobin.

Effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy on clinical and immunological response and glycaemic control in type 2 diabetic patients with moderate periodontitis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare the local efficacy of nonsurgical periodontal therapy between type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic patients and the effect of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control.

BACKGROUND

A complex two-way relationship exists between diabetes mellitus and periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After selection, 20 subjects (10 diabetic and 10 non-diabetic) underwent baseline examination, periodontal clinical study and biochemical analysis of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). After the pre-treatment phase, subgingival scaling and root planing were performed. Subsequently, all subjects continued the maintenance programme and were re-examined at 3 and 6 months.

RESULTS

Diabetic and non-diabetic subjects responded well after therapy, showing a very similar progression during the follow-up period. Both groups showed clinically and immunologically significant improvements. Significant reductions were also found in the total volume of GCF and levels of interleukin-1beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha. Diabetic subjects showed an improvement in their metabolic control. The change in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA(1C)) was statistically significant at 3 and 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical and immunological improvements obtained were accompanied by a significant reduction in HbA(1C) values in type 2 diabetic subjects. Larger studies are needed to confirm this finding and establish whether periodontal therapy has a significant effect on glycaemic control.

The oral cavity of elderly patients in diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a common and growing global health problem leading to several complications. Among these periodontal diseases are considered as the sixth complication of diabetes mellitus. This article reviews the relationship between diabetes and oral health, particularly focusing on periodontal diseases, dental caries and xerostomia. There is a bidirectional interrelationship between diabetes and periodontal diseases. Periodontitis is more prevalent and severe in patients with diabetes than in normal population. Therapy of periodontal infection contributes to a positive glycaemic control management and enables reduction of the burden of complications of diabetes mellitus. Diabetics have an increased predisposition to the manifestation of oral diseases like candidiasis which is associated with poor glycaemic control and therapeutic dentures. This predisposition also contributes to xerostomia, which may be due to increased glucose levels in oral fluids or immune dysregulation.

Study design, recruitment, and baseline characteristics: the Department of Veterans Affairs Dental Diabetes Study

OBJECTIVES

We are conducting a clinical trial of the efficacy of periodontal therapy in the improvement of glycaemic control in veterans with poorly controlled diabetes. This report describes study design, recruitment and randomization and compares baseline characteristics of the sample frame with those randomized into study groups.

METHODS

Veterans with poorly controlled diabetes were randomized in two groups: immediate periodontal therapy ("early treatment") or usual care followed by periodontal therapy ("deferred treatment"). Half of each group continued care for 12 months; the other half returned to their usual care. We studied baseline patient characteristics, self-reported health measures, and clinical examination data. We examined means for continuous variables, frequencies for categorical variables and compared groups using t-tests and chi(2) tests (alpha=0.05 for both).

RESULTS

The 193 randomized participants were younger (58 years) and had slightly higher HbA1c (10.2%) than the 2534 non-randomized participants (64 years, HbA1c =9.8%). The deferred treatment group was more likely than the early treatment group to have a history of stroke, transient ischaemic attacks, and less likely to be current or former smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanism for randomization was largely successful in this study.

Does periodontal care improve glycemic control? The Department of Veterans Affairs Dental Diabetes Study

OBJECTIVES

Report results of a randomized-clinical trial of the efficacy of periodontal care in the improvement of glycemic control in 165 veterans with poorly controlled diabetes over 4 months.

METHODS

Outcomes were change in Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in the Early Treatment versus untreated (Usual Care) groups and percent of participants with decreases in HbA1c. Analyses included simple/multiple variable linear/logistic regressions, adjusted for baseline HbA1c, age, and duration of diabetes.

RESULTS

Unadjusted analyses showed no differences between groups. After adjustment for baseline HbA1c, age, and diabetes duration, the mean absolute HbA1c change in the Early Treatment group was -0.65% versus -0.51% in the Usual Care group (p=0.47). Adjusted odds for improvement by 0.5% in the Early Treatment group was 1.67 (95% confidence interval: 0.84, 3.34, p=0.14). Usual Care subjects were twice as likely to increase insulin from baseline to 4 months (20% versus 11%, p=0.12) and less likely to decrease insulin (1% versus 6%, p=0.21) than Early Treatment subjects. Among insulin users at baseline, more increased insulin in the Usual Care group (40% versus 21%, p=0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

No significant benefit was found for periodontal therapy after 4 months in this study; trends in some results were in favour of periodontal treatment.

Molecular analysis of the subgingival microbiota in health and disease

This investigation provides molecular analyses of the periodontal microbiota in health and disease. Subgingival samples from 47 volunteers with healthy gingivae or clinically diagnosed chronic periodontitis were characterized by PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) with primers specific for the V2-V3 region of the eubacterial 16S rRNA gene. A hierarchical dendrogram was constructed from band patterns. All unique PCR amplicons (DGGE bands) were sequenced for identity. Samples were also analyzed for the presence of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythensis by multiplex PCR. Associations of patient age, gender, and smoking status together with the presence of each unique band and putative periodontal pathogens with disease were assessed by logistic regression. Periodontal pockets were colonized by complex eubacterial communities (10 to 40 distinct DGGE bands) with substantial individual variation in the community profile. Species diversity in health and disease was determined by the Shannon-Weaver index of diversity and compared by the Mann-Whitney U test. Sequence analyses of DGGE amplicons indicated the occurrence of many nontypical oral species and eubacteria previously associated with this environment. With the exception of T. forsythensis, the putative pathogens were not detected by DGGE. Multiplex PCR, however, detected T. forsythensis, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and P. gingivalis in 9% 16%, and 29% of the patients with disease, respectively. The presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was significantly associated with disease (P < 0.01). Statistical analyses indicated that the presence of Treponema socranskii and Pseudomonas sp. was a significant predictor of disease (P < 0.05) and that there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in terms of eubacterial species diversity between health and disease.

Diabetes as a Risk Factor for Periodontal Disease: Current Status and Future Considerations

Introduction: Over the past decade, there has been an emerging interest in the interrelationship between systemic conditions and oral health. Diabetes is perhaps one of the best documented conditions that have been closely linked with periodontal disease. This paper reviews the role of diabetes as a risk factor in periodontal disease. The treatment implications in the management of periodontal disease as an integral component of diabetes care is also discussed in light of the current understanding of the pathogenesis of these 2 chronic conditions. Materials and Methods: Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory studies examining the relationship between diabetes and periodontal diseases were selected from both medical and dental journals. Results: The severity of periodontal destruction has been shown to be related to the direct and indirect effects of glycaemic control, with other factors also being implicated. Although some studies have pointed towards a bi-directional relationship between glycaemic control and periodontal health, it is still not clear if improvement in periodontal health could lead to improved metabolic control. Conclusion: Diabetes and periodontal disease are closely related in many ways, though the effect of periodontal disease on diabetes control remain to be determined, with larger intervention studies. In light of the increasing evidence of the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease, management of oral health should form an integral part of diabetes management. Key words: Diabetes mellitus, Infection, Periodontitis

Clinical and metabolic changes after conventional treatment of type 2 diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the response to conventional periodontal treatment between patients with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus from a clinical and metabolic standpoint.

METHODS

A prospective, parallel, comparative longitudinal clinical study was performed between type 2 diabetics and non-diabetics with moderate generalized chronic periodontitis. The study period was 6 months. Conventional periodontal scaling and root planing were performed, and the response to this treatment was compared between the groups at 3 and 6 months, measuring the plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, level of clinical attachment, and gingival recession. In the diabetic patients, the clinical response was related to measurements of HbA1c and glucose in blood at 3 and 6 months.

RESULTS

An improvement in all clinical variables was observed, with no statistically significant differences between the groups, with the exception of probing depth (P <0.0207). The improvement observed in blood HbA1c levels confirmed a positive metabolic response to periodontal treatment, with a lower value for this variable at each measurement time.

CONCLUSIONS

Both groups of patients showed a clinical improvement after basic non-surgical periodontal treatment. The diabetic patients showed improved metabolic control (lower HbA1c) at 3 and 6 months after periodontal treatment.

Does periodontal treatment improve glycemic control in diabetic patients? A meta-analysis of intervention studies

Previous analyses regarding effects of periodontal treatment on glycemic control included studies where causal association might not be assumed, or the results were reported non-quantitatively. We initiated this meta-analysis of 10 intervention studies to quantify the effects of periodontal treatment on HbA1c level among diabetic patients, to explore possible causes for the discrepant reports, and to make recommendations for future studies. Data sources were MEDLINE (January, 1980, to January, 2005), the EBMR, Cochrane Register, and bibliographies of the published articles. Three investigators extracted data regarding intervention, outcomes, and effect size. A total of 456 patients was included in this analysis, with periodontal treatment as predictor and the actual change in hemoglobin A1c level as the outcome. The weighted average decrease in actual HbA1c level was 0.38% for all studies, 0.66% when restricted to type 2 diabetic patients, and 0.71% if antibiotics were given to them. However, none was statistically significant.

Immune responses and vaccination against periodontal infections

BACKGROUND

The infectious aetiology of periodontitis is complex and no curative treatment modality exists. Palliative therapy is available.

AIMS

To review the evidence that active or passive immunization against periodontitis provides immune protection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

PubMed (Medline), the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Center for Disease Control electronic databases were searched to extrapolate information on immune responses to immunization against periodontitis.

RESULTS

Studies in non-human primate models using ligature-induced experimental periodontitis suggest that antibody responses by active immunization against Porphyromonas gingivalis can safely be induced, enhanced, and obtained over time. Immune responses to whole bacterial cell and purified protein preparations considered as vaccine candidates have been evaluated in different animal models demonstrating that there are several valid vaccine candidates. Data suggest that immunization reduces the rate and severity of bone loss. It is also, temporarily, possible to alter the composition of the subgingival microflora. Natural active immunization by therapeutic interventions results in antibody titre enhancement and potentially improves treatment outcomes. Passive immunization of humans using P. gingivalis monoclonal antibodies temporarily prevents colonization of P. gingivalis. Probiotic therapy may be an alternative approach. Regulatory and safety issues for human periodontal vaccine trials must be considered. Shared infectious aetiology between periodontitis and systemic diseases may enhance vaccine effort developments.

CONCLUSIONS

Proof of principle that active and passive immunization can induce protective antibody responses is given. The impact of natural immunization and passive immunization in humans should be explored and may, presently, be more feasible than active immunization studies.

Effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment with or without doxycycline on the periodontium of type 1 diabetic patients

AIM

The present investigation was performed to study how type 1 diabetics responded to non-surgical periodontal treatment with and without adjunctive doxycycline.

METHOD

Sixty diabetic type 1 patients (mean age 35.3+/-9 years) with moderate-to-severe periodontal disease were selected and divided into two groups of 30 patients each. Both groups were sex and age matched and had similar amounts of periodontal destruction. Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment levels (CAL) were recorded. Group 1 (30 patients) was treated with oral hygiene instruction, scaling and root planing, chlorhexidine rinses twice a day and doxycycline (100 mg/day for 15 days). Group 2 (30 patients) had the same treatment but without doxycycline. After 12 weeks their periodontal condition was reevaluated.

RESULTS

After treatment, both groups had a significant improvement in all periodontal parameters, since PI, BOP, probing pocket depth (PPD) and CAL were significantly reduced. However, the reduction in PD in pockets > or =6 mm and in BOP were more evident when doxycycline was used (group 1). Differences between groups for these parameters were statistically significant (p=0.03).

CONCLUSION

Although both periodontal treatment regimens are effective in type 1 diabetics, the use of doxycycline as an adjunct, provided more significant results when good plaque control was achieved.

The effect of improved periodontal health on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of improved periodontal health on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fourty-four patients with type 2 DM were selected. Subjects were randomly assigned into two groups.

DATA COLLECTION

Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment levels (CALs), gingival recession (GR) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at baseline at 1st and 3rd months. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h post-prandial glucose (PPG), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and microalbuminure were analysed at baseline, 3 months following the periodontal therapy. The treatment group received full-mouth scaling and root planing whereas the control group received no periodontal treatment.

RESULTS

A statistically significant effect could be demonstrated for PI, GI, PPD, CAL and BOP for the treatment group. HbA1c levels in the treatment group decreased significantly whereas the control group showed a slight but insignificant increase for this parameter.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study showed that non-surgical periodontal treatment is associated with improved glycaemic control in type 2 patients and could be undertaken along with the standard measures for the diabetic patient care.

Plasma antibody levels in periodontitis patients and controls

BACKGROUND

A major aspect of the adaptive host response in periodontitis is the production of antibodies. Several risk and susceptibility factors for periodontitis, including smoking, age and composition of the subgingival microflora, have also been suggested to influence antibody production.

AIM

The present study was conducted to investigate plasma levels of immunoglobulin (Ig) G, A and M antibodies in periodontitis patients of Caucasian European heritage in relation to disease severity, smoking, diagnosis and prevalence of periodontopathogens.

METHODS

In this study, 29 patients with severe periodontitis, 51 with moderate periodontitis and 55 controls without periodontal destruction were enrolled. From the total of 80 patients, 18 were diagnosed with aggressive periodontitis and 62 with chronic periodontitis. Total IgG, IgA and IgM as well as IgG isotypes were analyzed in plasma samples.

RESULTS

Levels of total IgG, IgA and IgM were not different between patients and controls; however, in periodontitis, higher levels of IgG1 and IgG2 were observed. Smoking appeared to be significantly and inversely related to antibody levels in periodontitis, in particular for total IgG and IgG2. The absence of an elevated total IgG and IgG2 in smoking patients was irrespective of severity, prevalence of periodontal pathogens and diagnosis. The elevation of total IgG and IgG1 and IgG2 in non-smoker periodontitis patients was observed in patients with moderate periodontitis and even greater in patients with severe periodontitis, but was independent whether patients were infected with Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans or Porphyromonas gingivalis and independent of diagnosis. Clinically, it was observed that patients who smoked had more periodontal bone loss; the current findings on antibody levels may be one of several mechanisms related to more extensive periodontal breakdown in smoker patients.

CONCLUSION

The current study shows that non-smoker periodontitis patients have higher levels of total IgG and IgG2 than smoker periodontitis patients.

Assessment of periodontal conditions and systemic disease in older subjects

BACKGROUND

An increased risk for periodontitis has been associated both with type-1 or insulin dependent diabetes (IDDM) and with type-2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM).

AIMS

1) To describe and analyze periodontal conditions in older low-income ethnic diverse subjects with or without a diagnosis of diabetes. 2) To assess to what extent diabetes mellitus is associated with periodontal status, and 3) how periodontitis ranks as a coexisting disease among other diseases in subjects with diabetes mellitus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Radiographic signs of alveolar bone loss were studied in 1101 older subjects 60-75 years old (mean age 67.6, SD+/-4.7). The number of periodontal sites and the proportions of teeth with probing depth (PD) > or =5 mm, clinical attachment levels (CAL) > or =4 mm were studied in a subset of 701 of the subjects.

RESULTS

IDDM was reported by 2.9% and NIDDM by 9.2% of the subjects. The number of remaining teeth did not differ by diabetic status. The number of sites with PD > or =5 mm and the proportion of PD with > or =5 mm was significantly smaller in the non-diabetic group (chi2=46.8, p<0.01, and chi2=171.1, p<0.001, respectively). Statistical analysis failed to demonstrate group differences for the number and proportions of sites with CAL > or =4 mm and for radiographic findings of alveolar bone loss. Combining all periodontal parameters revealed that the Mantel-Haenszel common odds of having IDDM/NIDDM and periodontitis was 1.8 : 1 (95% CI: 1.1-3.1, p<0.03). The common odds ratio estimate of an association between heart disease and diabetes was 3.6 : 1 (95% CI: 2.1-2.6, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Probing depth differences between IDDM/NIDDM vs. non-diabetic subjects may reflect the presences of pseudo-pockets and not progressive periodontitis in many subjects with diabetes mellitus. Periodontitis is not a predominant coexisting disease in older subjects with diabetes mellitus.

Serum IgG to heat shock proteins and Porphyromonas gingivalis antigens in diabetic patients with periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Past studies have reported a correlation between the presence and severity of periodontitis and serum antibody titers to species-specific antigens of Porphyromonas gingivalis or to cross-reactive antigens, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and heat shock proteins (HSP), shared between P. gingivalis and other bacteria. Our recent study of periodontal treatment outcome in insulin-dependent (type 1) diabetes mellitus patients with severe periodontitis (IDDMI/periodontitis) resulted in two key findings: 1. serum glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody (GAD65 Ab) levels were significantly associated with periodontal pocket depth change (PDC) and 2. serum IgG titers to P. gingivalis cells were positively associated with GAD65 Ab level in seropositive (GAD65 Ab +) patients. We have therefore hypothesized that profiles of serum autoantibody levels and IgG titers, to P. gingivalis-specific antigens may be useful in assessing risk for refractory periodontitis in such patients.

AIM

To determine whether PDC resulting from non-surgical periodontal treatment can be predicted using profiles of baseline IgG titers to P. gingivalis-specific antigens, human HSP, and GAD65.

METHODS

PDC was assessed two months after non-surgical periodontal treatment of 7 GAD65 Ab + and 11 GAD65 AbIDDM/periodontitis patients. Pretreatment titers to GAD65, recombinant human heat shock proteins (HSP90, HSP70, and HSP60), and various P. gingivalis antigens were measured using radioligand precipitation or enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assays and compared to the same measurements for 154 recent-onset IDDM patients and 46 non-diabetic controls.

RESULTS

Median titers (ELISA units) to HSP90 and HSP70 were significantly higher than non-diabetic controls for GAD65 Ab + (p degrees = 0.002) and GAD65 Ab- (p = 0.034) IDDM/periodontitis patients, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis indicated significant partial correlation of PDC with log-transformed titers to HSP90 (r = - 0.62, p = 0.008), HSP70 (r = + 0.62, p = 0.009), GAD65 (r = - 0.60, p = 0.01) and P. gingivalis LPS (r = - 0.5 1, p = 0.04). Furthermore, hierarchical clustering of baseline profiles of log-transformed HSP90, HSP70, and GAD65 Ab titers sorted patients into two distinct clusters with significantly different median PDC (1.45 min, n = 10 vs. 0.65 min, n = 8; p = 0.016, Mann-Whitney).

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment profiles of serum antibody titers to HSP90, HSP70, GAD65, and P. gingivalis LPS may be useful for predicting which patients with IDDM/periodontitis will have a poor response to non-surgical periodontal therapy.

Dentists, diabetes and periodontitis

This review updates the relationship between diabetes mellitus and periodontitis. A checklist has been included to assist the general dental practitioner identify individuals with undiagnosed diabetes. The literature indicates a similar incidence of periodontitis exists between well-controlled diabetics and non-diabetics. However, a greater incidence and severity of periodontitis is observed in both Type 1 and 2 long-term diabetics with poor metabolic control. There is an undeniable link between diabetes mellitus and periodontitis with complex interactions occurring between these diseases. A critical review of the literature fails to support the notion that periodontal therapy has a beneficial effect on the long-term control of diabetes. We have explored the associations between periodontitis and diabetes in the hope of providing the general dental practitioner with the knowledge to support the diabetic patient with the best possible dental care and advice.

Treatment outcome for IDDM patients in relation to glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies and serum IgG to periodontal pathogens

BACKGROUND

Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) have elevated risk for periodontitis (PD) relative to subjects without diabetes. Whether refractory PD in IDDM patients is related to autoimmunity as indicated by serum glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody GAD Ab levels or to host bacterial immunity as reflected by serum antibody titers to periodontal pathogens is unknown.

AIMS

To determine if non-surgical periodontal treatment outcome differs between GAD Ab-seropositive and -seronegative IDDM patients by assessing the following parameters: (1) pretreatment serum levels of GAD Ab, (2) pretreatment serum IgG titers to key periodontal pathogens, and (3) changes in periodontal pocket probing depth (PDC) after treatment.

METHODS

Before and two months after periodontal treatment of 11 GAD Ab-seronegative and 7 -seropositive subjects, PDC was assessed and serum GAD Ab and IgG to Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Bacteroides forsythus (BJ), and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) were studied using established radioligand precipitation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively.

RESULTS

The PDC decrease was significantly better for GAD Ab-seronegative subjects than for seropositive subjects (median 1.4 mm+/-0.5 s.d. versus 0.5 mm+/-0.3 s.d., p<0.03, Mann-Whitney). GAD Ab levels and PDC were positively correlated (r=+0.71, p<0.05) for sero-positive subjects but were neutral (r=-0.07) for seronegative subjects. Serum IgG to Pg and GAD Ab levels were positively associated (r2=0.42) in seropositive subjects. Logistic regression analysis confirmed that GAD Ab status was the primary discriminator for PDC (p<0.04).

CONCLUSION

Detection of elevated GAD Ab levels in combination with elevated IgG titers to Pg before treatment is indicative of IDDM patients with refractory PD.

Bidirectional interrelationships between diabetes and periodontal diseases: an epidemiologic perspective

This review evaluates evidence for a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal diseases. A comprehensive Medline search of the post-1960 English language literature was employed to identify primary research reports of relationships between diabetes and periodontal diseases. Reports included in the review on the adverse effects of diabetes on periodontal health (DM-->PD) were restricted to those comparing periodontal health in subjects with and without diabetes. Review of adverse affects of periodontal infection on glycemic control included reports of periodontal treatment studies and follow-up observational studies in which changes in glycemic control could be assessed. Observational studies reporting DM-->PD provided consistent evidence of greater prevalence, severity, extent, or progression of at least one manifestation of periodontal diseases in the large majority of reports (supportive evidence in 44/48 total reviewed; 37/41 cross-sectional and 7/7 cohort). Additionally, there were no studies reviewed with superior design features to refute this association. Treatment studies provided direct evidence to support periodontal infection having an adverse, yet modifiable, effect on glycemic control. However, not all investigations reported an improvement in glycemic control after periodontal treatment. Additional evidence to support the effect of severe periodontitis on increased risk for poorer glycemic control comes from 2 follow-up observational studies. The evidence reviewed supports viewing the relationship between diabetes and periodontal diseases as bidirectional. Further rigorous, systematic study is warranted to establish that treating periodontal infections can be influential in contributing to glycemic control management and possibly to the reduction of the burden of complications of diabetes mellitus.

Treatment of periodontal disease and control of diabetes: an assessment of the evidence and need for future research

Evidence points to an increased cytokine response in type 2 diabetes, especially the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. Genetics, age, and, nutrition are important signals for this increased response and as reported more recently, infections and inflammation. Persistent elevation of IL-1 beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha in the diabetic state have an effect on the liver, stimulate the release of acute-phase proteins, produce the characteristic dysregulation of lipid metabolism associated with type 2 diabetes, and have effects on pancreatic beta cells as well. In addition, TNF-alpha, a potent inhibitor of the tyrosine kinase activity of the insulin receptor, has been implicated as an etiologic factor for insulin resistance. Collectively, the evidence supports a role for cytokine elevation in the pathophysiology and metabolic abnormalities associated with diabetes. Periodontitis is an infection that is twice as prevalent in diabetic individuals compared to non-diabetics. Porphyromonas gingivalis, one of the microorganisms responsible for this infection, is able to invade endothelial cells and is a potent signal for monocyte and macrophage activation. Thus, once established in the diabetic host, this chronic infection complicates diabetes control and increases the occurrence and severity of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Unlike treatment of acute infections, modalities of treatment for chronic infections are a matter of debate. Evidence indicates that mechanical removal of subgingival infection does not result in complete elimination of periodontal infection and consequently there is no effect on diabetes control measured as reduction in glycated hemoglobin. On the other hand, studies incorporating systemic antibiotics as adjuncts to mechanical debridement result in a reduction of P. gingivalis to nondetectable levels and a concomitant reduction in glycated hemoglobin, independent of the hypoglycemic effects of diabetes drugs or insulin. The evidence supports the notion that treatment of chronic periodontal infection is essential in the diabetic patient. Assessment of infection status in diabetic patients is fundamental for appropriate treatment decisions.

Impact of oral diseases on systemic health in the elderly: diabetes mellitus and aspiration pneumonia

Evidence is increasing that oral health has important impacts on systemic health. This paper presents data from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) describing the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases in the older adult population. It then evaluates published reports and presents data from clinical and epidemiologic studies on relationships among oral health status, chronic oral infections (of which caries and periodontitis predominate), and certain systemic diseases, specifically focusing on type 2 diabetes and aspiration pneumonia. Both of these diseases increase in occurrence and impact in older age groups. The NHANES III data demonstrate that dental caries and periodontal diseases occur with substantial frequency and represent a burden of unmet treatment need in older adults. Our review found clinical and epidemiologic evidence to support considering periodontal infection a risk factor for poor glycemic control in type 2 diabetes; however, there is limited representation of older adults in reports of this relationship. For aspiration pneumonia, several lines of evidence support oral health status as an important etiologic factor. Additional clinical studies designed specifically to evaluate the effects of treating periodontal infection on glycemic control and improving oral health status in reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia are warranted. Although further establishing causal relationships among a set of increasingly more frequently demonstrated associations is indicated, there is evidence to support recommending oral care regimens in protocols for managing type 2 diabetes and preventing aspiration pneumonia.

Systemic diseases caused by oral infection

Recently, it has been recognized that oral infection, especially periodontitis, may affect the course and pathogenesis of a number of systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes mellitus, and low birth weight. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current status of oral infections, especially periodontitis, as a causal factor for systemic diseases. Three mechanisms or pathways linking oral infections to secondary systemic effects have been proposed: (i) metastatic spread of infection from the oral cavity as a result of transient bacteremia, (ii) metastatic injury from the effects of circulating oral microbial toxins, and (iii) metastatic inflammation caused by immunological injury induced by oral microorganisms. Periodontitis as a major oral infection may affect the host's susceptibility to systemic disease in three ways: by shared risk factors; subgingival biofilms acting as reservoirs of gram-negative bacteria; and the periodontium acting as a reservoir of inflammatory mediators. Proposed evidence and mechanisms of the above odontogenic systemic diseases are given.

Relationship of blood glucose level to community periodontal index of treatment needs and body mass index in a permanent Israeli military population

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to find a possible link between blood glucose levels and periodontal disease.

METHODS

In a prospective study the dental health of 10,590 military service men and women was examined. The relationships of periodontal condition, expressed as CPITN index, and blood glucose levels were tested. The effect of gender, body mass index (BMI), and smoking was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Blood glucose levels were significantly and positively associated with severe periodontal disease, men, and higher BMI. Smoking did not affect blood glucose levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Blood glucose levels might be associated with severe periodontal disease.