People with diabetes have a significantly greater risk of developing oral disease

Researchers at Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery (SDOS) have confirmed a relationship between diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease for people in low-income and underserved communities. Diabetes mellitus represented an added risk for these individuals who are already at high risk for tooth loss, periodontal disease and caries.

The researchers, led by Evanthia Lalla, DDS, MS, associate professor of dentistry at SDOS, reviewed records of 150 patients with diabetes and 150 patients without diabetes from a Columbia University Medical Center dental clinic in Northern Manhattan. They found a 50 percent increase of oral disease for patients with diabetes as compared to non-diabetic patients. 

Findings suggest that diabetes in low-income and underserved communities is an added risk for oral disease and that oral disease prevention and treatment programs may need to be part of the standards for continuing care of patients with diabetes.

For more information or a copy of the full study, contact Annie Bayne at (212) 305-3900 or [email protected].