PERIODONTAL DISEASE THE INVISIBLE (FORGOTTEN) DIABETES COMPLICATION: NEGATIVE IMPACT IN QUALITY OF LIFE

Introduction: Periodontal disease and diabetes are prevalent, intricate, and chronic conditions characterized by well-established bidirectional relationships. Specifically, in the context of inadequate glycemic control, individuals with diabetes manifest an elevated prevalence and severity of periodontitis. Conversely, severe periodontitis is associated with compromised glycemic control. Interestingly, it is uncommon for healthcare providers managing diabetic patients to incorporate routine oral examinations as part of their comprehensive care, despite the intrinsic connection between periodontitis and oral health. This stands in contrast to other commonly assessed conditions such as retinopathy, neuropathy, or renal status. This disparity is notable both in the initial management and throughout the chronic care of diabetic individuals. Methods: A total of 220 individuals diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were intentionally selected from the Diabetes and Stomatology Clinic at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán. The selection process involved a thorough review by the hospital's dental team to ensure adherence to specific inclusion criteria. These criteria included individuals aged between 34 and 64 years, with HbA1c levels less than 9. This deliberate patient selection process aimed to maintain a focused and homogeneous study population for robust research outcomes. Results: In our study, lower HbA1c levels were consistently linked to better periodontal health, emphasizing the association between glycemic control and oral well-being. This trend is evident across different CPI categories, reaffirming the inverse relationship between HbA1c levels and periodontal health. Conclusion: This study underscores the intricate link between diabetes and periodontal disease, urging expanded care for individuals with diabetes. Integrating routine dental assessments can enhance overall health outcomes. Further research and awareness are crucial for a holistic diabetes care approach, emphasizing the need for additional studies.