Periodontal Disease : Type 2 Diabetics versus Non-Diabetics

Introduction: The association between Diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease has been studied in various populations globally. Despite there being a considerable number of persons affected by Diabetes , this relationship is under-researched in South Africa Objective: To compare the periodontal status of diabetic patients with non-diabetic persons in Cape Town , South Africa. Methods: Sixty-seven type 2 diabetics (mean age: 49.3 ± 8.97) and 67 non-diabetics (mean age: 47.6 ± 8.85) were examined. The plaque index (P1I), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL). These parameters were recorded on Ramfjord index teeth or their substitutes. Previous dental care, smoking status, alcohol consumption and socio-economic status were also assessed. Results: Diabetics had significantly higher mean GI (p = 0.001), PD (p = 0.031) and CAL (p = 0.022) than non-diabetics. The mean P1I (p = 0531) was not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: This study showed that the diabetics investigated had more severe and a higher prevalence of periodontal disease. Therefore, diabetics should be educated on these findings so that they can seek periodontal disease management early.