Diabetes Mellitus – A Risk Factor For Periodontal Disease

Diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease with several major complications affecting both the quality and length of life. Periodontitis is a recognised complication of diabetes, and is much more than a localized oral infection. In addition to elevated glucose levels, many other pathophysiological changes in diabetics predispose the diabetic to periodontal disease. This paper reviews the various factors leading to periodontal disease, analyzes the two-way theory of Grossi and Genco, and the treatment options available.