Background: Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the supporting structures of the teeth, has been recognized as a potential contributor to the management and progression of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). T2DM is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, and its
control is vital in preventing complications. Objective: To evaluate the association between glycemic control and periodontitis in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients and evaluate their self-management compliance. Methodology: A case-control study was conducted at Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital in Karachi to examine the connection between periodontitis and diabetes. The cases and controls were matched for age and gender in a 1:1 ratio. Periodontitis was defined using specific oral health criteria. The participants were interviewed about their self-management pertinent to diabetes followed by periodontal and oral examination. Periodontitis was considered as ≥ two sites with periodontal probing depth >4mm or attachment loss ≥4mm and bleeding on probing gums grade=2. Their current HbA1c level was recorded from their medical history. The data was analyzed using SPSS v.21. Logistic
regression was performed to assess the odds of glycemic control and self-management compliance in diabetic patients suffering from periodontitis than among those who did not have periodontitis. Odd ratios (ORs) were considered significant at 95% confidence interval. Results: The unadjusted odds ratio
for poor glycemic control (HbA1c >7%) was 6.73 [CI=1.410, 32.173]. However, when adjusted for history of smoking and other addictions, the OR improved by 3.04 [CI= 0.494, 18,699] in cases as compared to controls. Conclusion: Poor periodontal condition appears to be associated with poor glycemic control in diabetics suffering from periodontitis. Improving self-compliance and addressing confounding factors like smoking may have the potential to positively impact both periodontal health and glycemic control in diabetic individuals with periodontitis.