Patients with type 2 diabetes are at nearly 2-folds higher risk of tooth loss, according to a meta-analysis published in the journal BMC Endocrine Disorders.

Researchers from the Golestan University of Medical Sciences in Iran conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 studies, from 2007 to 2021, with the aim to find out an association between type 2 diabetes and tooth loss. These trials included 13 cross-sectional, three case-control and six cohort studies. Eleven studies were from The Americas, 7 were European studies, while the remaining four were conducted in Asia and the Middle East.

Analysis showed that type 2 diabetes had a significant association with risk of tooth loss with an unadjusted odds ratio of 1.87 and adjusted ratio of 1.20. Analysis of data according to the study design also revealed a significant correlation between tooth loss and type 2 diabetes with highest risk noted in case-control studies (OR 5.10) followed by cohort studies (OR 1.29) and cross-sectional studies (OR 1.15).

The macro and microvascular complications of diabetes are well-recognized. This study has highlighted another complication of diabetes, which is loss of teeth. The link between diabetes and periodontal disease may support the link between diabetes and tooth loss. Physicians managing diabetic patients therefore should also take into consideration their dental health.

Reference

1. Ahmadinia AR, et al. Association between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and tooth loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Endocr Disord. 2022 Apr 13;22(1):100. doi: 10.1186/s12902-022-01012-8.