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Diabetes and periodontal infection — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardBiomedical SciencesDiabetes and periodontal infectionNDEB AFK

A 57-year-old with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes has recurrent periodontal abscesses and delayed healing after scaling. HbA1c is 88 mmol/mol, and plaque control is inconsistent. What is the most likely cause/mechanism?

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Correct answer: E — Impaired neutrophil function and collagen metabolism

Poorly controlled diabetes impairs host response, neutrophil function, microvascular healing, and collagen metabolism, increasing periodontal susceptibility. Fluoride production and mandibular canal anatomy do not explain recurrent infection and delayed healing. The pearl is that periodontal outcomes improve when local therapy is paired with medical risk-factor control.

Reference: Canadian periodontal and biomedical science references; NDEB KSAs 2024