What is the primary relationship established between diabetes and periodontitis?

The primary relationship established between diabetes and periodontitis is that the severity of periodontitis is related to hyperglycemia. This means that poor blood glucose control can exacerbate periodontal disease. Diabetic patients often exhibit alterations in their immune response, which can impair their ability to fight infections, including oral infections like periodontitis. Additionally, the presence of periodontal infection can contribute to further complications in diabetes management, leading to a cycle where each condition negatively influences the other.

In this context, the correlation is well-documented in clinical studies, highlighting that individuals with uncontrolled diabetes tend to have more severe periodontal disease due to the effects of high blood sugar on their overall immune function and tissue healing. This interrelation emphasizes the importance of maintaining good glycemic control not only for managing diabetes but also for preventing or mitigating periodontal complications.