Type I Diabetic Patients’ Perceptions of the Relationship Between Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontal Disease

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Knowledge about the relationship between diabetes and periodontitis is lacking in individuals diagnosed with type I diabetes. To enhance oral health and reduce the risk of oral diseases, healthcare professionals, both dentists and endocrinologists, should educate and motivate patients to treat periodontitis and its complications as soon as possible. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of type I diabetic patients about the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional, single-center study was carried out on 80 patients from the Tâmega and Sousa Hospital Center, who were administered a questionnaire before they underwent an oral clinical examination. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and independent <i>t</i>-test. <b>Results:</b> All participants were aware of at least one of the problems associated with diabetes. Furthermore, 18.8% of the patients reported not receiving any advice from their dentist, and 31.4% stated that they had been informed of its importance. Regarding the diagnosis of diabetes, 87.5% of participants felt that dentists should be involved. Advanced age, lower education levels, and alcohol consumption were associated with a higher prevalence of periodontal disease (35.6%) (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Health practitioners should advise early periodontal disease diagnosis, treatment, and oral health education, particularly for people with type I diabetes. <b>Conclusions:</b> Factors, such as advanced age and lower education levels, were associated with a higher prevalence of periodontal disease. Although many patients recognize the relationship between diabetes and dental problems, most do not discuss this with their dentist.