According to a new research funded by Diabetes UK and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, treating gum disease (periodontitis) could be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes to manage their blood glucose levels. Better oral health was also associated with improvements in kidney and blood vessel function.
In the study led by University College London, researchers evaluated 250 patients with poorly controlled diabetes and active periodontitis. The findings were published in Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal.
The findings showed that after a year, individuals receiving more intensive gum therapy witnessed an average 0.6% reduction in their blood glucose levels. According to the authors, a 0.6% reduction in blood glucose levels is equivalent of adding a second blood sugar lowering drug to a patient's regimen. Additionally, there was also evidence of reduced chronic inflammation, thereby lowering the risk for serious diabetes-related complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Professor Francesco D’Aituo, the lead author, said: "Gum disease is closely linked to diabetes and it is well known that it can lead to a higher blood glucose level as well as chronic inflammation around the body, which both could promote the development of kidney and vessel damage if sustained for long periods of time."
