Study of Periodontal Diseases and Risk Factors in Diabetic Patients

Abstract

The purposes of this study are to assess the periodontal diseases and treatment needs and to investigate some risk factors associated with the occurrence of periodontal diseases in the diabetic patients. A total sample of 120 diabetic patients attending the diabetic clinics in Alexandria was included in the study. A specially designed questionnaire was used for collection of data that serve the purposes of the study. The results of periodontal examination using a plane mirror and Community Periodontal Index [CPI] probe were assessed. The majority of diabetic patients [91.7%] had periodontal diseases. It was found that metabolic control was the best variable predictor of increased loss of attachment of periodontal tissues. There was an urgent need for periodontal treatment especially the surgical treatment for the majority of the studied sample. Preventive oral hygiene programs should be designed and implemented for maintaining healthy gingiva throughout the life of diabetic patients.