Evaluation of Periodontal Health in Diabetic Patients: Influence of Glycemic Control and Diabetes Duration Using the Community Periodontal Index – A Longitudinal Study

Background: Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disease with consequences for periodontal health. However, various studies have established a link between diabetes and periodontal health. In this regard very limited research has been done to investigate the impact of duration of diabetes and glycemic index on periodontal health.Objective: To evaluate glycemic control (HbA1c levels) and diabetes duration on periodontal health using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI).Methods: The duration of the study was one year and six months after the approval of synopsis from ethical review board. Based on their glycemic control, 225 diabetic patients were split into three groups: effectively controlled (HbA1c <7%), mildly controlled (HbA1c between 7 and 9%), and inadequately controlled (HbA1c >9%). Periodontal health assessment was performed using the CPI at three time points: baseline, six months, and twelve months.Results: The study sample was 225 participants. The severity of periodontal disease was higher in diabetic patients with poor glycemic control. Over 12 months, CPI of the poorly controlled group increased to 85%, while the mildly controlled group increased to 55%, and the well-controlled group increased to 30%. A significant correlation was found between HbA1c levels and CPI scores (r=0.72, p<0.001), and between diabetes duration and CPI scores (r=0.68, p<0.001).Conclusion: The present study suggests a significant effect of glycemic control (HbA1c levels) and diabetes duration on periodontal health assessed by using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI).