Oral Health and its Association with Hypertension and Diabetes: Insights from a Cross-sectional Study

Background: Poor oral health has been increasingly linked to various systemic diseases, including hypertension and diabetes. The connection between oral health and these chronic conditions has garnered significant attention in recent years, with evidence suggesting that periodontal disease and other oral health issues may contribute to the development or worsening of systemic diseases. This study aims to explore the potential association between oral health status and the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes. This study also seeks to better understand how oral health may influence or be influenced by these common health conditions, providing valuable insights for preventive care. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey conducted on patients ( n = 500) from a tertiary healthcare center. Oral health status was assessed through periodontal examination and self-reported oral hygiene practices. Hypertension and diabetes were diagnosed based on medical history and clinical measurements. Statistical analysis was conducted to examine associations between oral health parameters and the presence of hypertension and diabetes. Results: In terms of gender distribution, hypertension and diabetes were more prevalent among males, with 60% of hypertensive and 56.7% of diabetic participants being male. Poor oral hygiene practices, such as irregular brushing and lack of dental visits, were associated with an increased risk of both conditions. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between periodontal disease and hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–2.9) as well as diabetes (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3–2.5). Conclusion: Poor oral health is significantly associated with hypertension and diabetes. Routine dental care and oral hygiene practices should be emphasized as part of the management strategy for patients with these conditions.