Periodontal Status of Type 2 Diabetic Patients Attending UNRWA Health Centers in Gaza Governorates

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Diabetes aff ects millions of people each year, it is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Periodontal disease has recently been recognized as the “sixth complication” of diabetes mellitus, the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is actually bi-directional. Generally, poor oral hygiene, a long history of diabetes, greater age, and poor metabolic control are associated with more severe periodontal disease. Method: The study is an analytical cross-sectional study, 406 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus selected through systematic random sampling from 5 UNRWA health centers. The World Health Organization’s basic methods tools were used to collect data and assess oral health. Results: Showed 36.3% of participants never brush their teeth, only 16.5% brush their teeth twice or more a day. Only 16.4% of participants have no gingival bleeding, the mean number of teeth showing no gingival bleeding is (9.79), showing gingival bleeding (9.91), and not present for bleeding test (9.14). While 2.4% have no periodontal pockets, the mean number of teeth showing absence of pocket (7.15), showing pocket 4-5 mm (7.84), showing pocket 6 mm or more (4.96) and not present for pocket measurement (9.13). Gingival bleeding was statistically signifi cant associated with gender, and frequency of teeth brushing, but there was no statistically signifi cant association between gingival bleeding and periodontal pocket, and sociodemographic, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and diabetic duration. Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients already had chronic periodontitis worsen by diabetes. Oral and periodontal health should be promoted as integral components of diabetes management.