Diabetes

Question 1

what HbA1c level are people with diabetes advised to maintain

Answer 1

6.5% (48mmol/mol) or lower

Question 2

what is the increased risk of developing periodontitis in someone with diabetes vs without

Answer 2

3x

Question 3

how can treating periodontal disease benefit someone with diabetes

Answer 3

may result in improved glycaemic control and reduction in HbA1c levels

Question 4

explain how diabetes affects periodontitis

Answer 4

1. Diabetes leads to a weakened immune response increasing susceptibility to periodontitis.
2. Elevated inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) worsen gum inflammation and tissue destruction.
3. Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) promote inflammation and damage periodontal tissues.
4. Increased ROS production leads to further tissue breakdown.
5. Altered RANKL/OPG balance accelerates alveolar bone destruction.
6. Poor circulation and impaired repair mechanisms slow recovery from gum disease

Question 5

explain how periodontitis affects diabetes

Answer 5

1. Periodontitis increases inflammatory cytokines, worsening insulin resistance.
2. Chronic gum inflammation contributes to poor blood sugar control, so higher HbA1c levels
3. Periodontitis is linked to higher risks of nephropathy and cardiovascular disease.
4. Inflammatory effects disrupt lipid metabolism, further worsening diabetes.
5. Inflammatory mediators interfere with insulin function so reduced insulin sensitivity