The Effect of Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy on Hemoglobin A^sub 1c^ Levels in Persons With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Chronic periodontitis, a destructive inflammatory disorder of the supporting structures of the teeth, is prevalent in patients with diabetes. Limited evidence suggests that periodontal therapy may improve glycemic control. Here, Hyman et al determine if nonsurgical periodontal treatment reduces levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA^sub 1c^) in persons with type 2 diabetes and moderate to advanced chronic periodontitis. The treatment group (n = 257) received scaling and root planing plus chiorhexidine oral rinse at baseline and supportive periodontal therapy at 3 and 6 months. The control group (n = 257) received no treatment for 6 months. Nonsurgical periodontal therapy did not improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and moderate to advanced chronic periodontitis. These findings do not support the use of nonsurgical periodontal treatment in patients with diabetes for the purpose of lowering levels of (HbA^sub 1c^).