Periodontal Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Its Relationship with Dry Mouth Condition

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of chronic periodontitis (CP) and the relationship between periodontal status and dry mouth condition in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A cross-sectional study was conducted on 66 controlled T2DM patients, determined by HbA1c level ≤ 9%. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), periodontal pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were recorded. Subjects were given questionnaire for self-evaluation of dry mouth followed by collection of saliva. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22.0. Results showed that the prevalence of CP was 93.9% with severity ranging from mild (41.9%), moderate (30.6%), to severe (27.5%). Most subjects (74.2%) had normal stimulated salivary flow rate although 15.9% reported having less saliva. There was no significant association between periodontal parameters and salivary flow rate. In conclusion, T2DM patients exhibited high prevalence of CP despite having controlled glycaemic status. Dry mouth condition was not a common symptom and was also not associated with periodontitis. To ensure appropriate management of diabetics, collaboration between medical colleagues and dental practitioners is important to control progression of periodontal disease.