Study links diabetes to higher risk of oral and maxillofacial diseases
Diabetes mellitus is associated with higher risks of oral and maxillofacial pathologies, including malignant tumors, periodontal disease, apical periodontitis, periapical cysts, and root remnants, according to a new study.
The research analyzed 6,868 patient records from the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Sfântul Spiridon Emergency Hospital in Iasi, Romania, from 2018 to 2024. Of the total patients, 925 (13%) had diabetes mellitus, while 5,943 (87%) did not. The mean age was 50 years, and 57% were male.
Oral pathologies were diagnosed clinically, radiographically, or histopathologically. Diabetes mellitus was confirmed according to World Health Organization criteria. Statistical analyses included Chi-square testing, Student’s t-test, odds ratios, and relative risks.
Patients with diabetes had higher risks of malignant tumors, periodontal disease, apical periodontitis, periapical cysts, and root remnants compared with patients without diabetes. The greatest risks were observed for malignant tumors and periodontal disease. The authors concluded that “the strong correlation between diabetes and oral pathologies, particularly malignancies and periodontal disease, underscores the need for early screening, preventive care, and targeted management strategies for diabetic patients.”
Read more: MDPI
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