Diabetes Increases Risk of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases: Study
An analysis of 6,868 patients published in the Dentistry Journal has revealed that individuals with diabetes face higher risks of malignant tumors, periodontal disease, apical periodontitis, periapical cysts, and root remnants. The study highlights the need for early screening and preventive dental care in diabetic patients. The study was conducted by Ionut C. and colleagues.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is recognized to be affecting various organ systems, but its contribution to oral health has attracted growing interest. Infections, malignancies, and periodontal disease are regarded as the most important conditions because they have a direct impact on quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of oro-maxillofacial pathologies in diabetic patients and to assess their correlation with diabetes mellitus compared to non-diabetic individuals.
Methods
The mean age was 49.84 ± 22.79 years admitted to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department between 2018 and 2024, as part of the retrospective analysis. Statistical analysis of the data was done with the help of Chi-square tests in the case of qualitative variables, while Odds Ratio (OR) and Relative Risk (RR) was determined for each pathology. Quantitative data was analyzed with Student's T-test for determining the significance of associations.
Results
Malignant tumors were seen in 15.0% of diabetics versus 1.4% of non-diabetics. The risk was 5.29 times greater (RR = 5.29; p = 0.001) in the group with DM.
Periodontal disease occurred in 5.5% of diabetics versus 0.6% of non-diabetics, with the risk being 4.66 times greater (RR = 4.66; p = 0.001).
Apical periodontitis was found in 5.3% of diabetics compared to 1.0% of non-diabetics, with a 3.53-fold greater risk (RR = 3.53; p = 0.001).
Root remnants were found in 9.0% of diabetic patients versus 6.1% of non-diabetics, with a 1.43-fold higher risk (RR = 1.43; p = 0.001).
This study established a strong relationship between diabetes mellitus and oral pathology, particularly malignant tumors and periodontal disease. The high risks attest to the importance of early detection, prevention, and multidisciplinary management of diabetic patients to improve oral health outcomes and quality of life.
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