Prediabetes/diabetes screening strategy at the periodontal clinic

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to propose an efficient chairside clinical strategy for the identification of undiagnosed hyperglycaemia in periodontal clinics. Material and methods: Α chairside system was used for assessment of glycated hemoglobin 1c (HbA1c) and active Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 levels (aMMP-8) were analyzed by immunotest in patients (n = 150) who fulfilled the criteria for screening of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Full-mouth periodontal parameters were assessed and various data such as Body Mass Index (BMI), smoking and education were recorded. Results: Thirty-one patients out of 150 tested were found with unknown hyperglycaemia (20.7%). Regarding sex, education, parent with diabetes, normal BMI, smoking, age ≥45 years and prior testing for diabetes, no differences were observed between subjects displaying HbA1c < 5.7 and ≥5.7% (Pearson's Chi-square test, p >.05). Subgroups differed regarding BMI (kg/m2), tooth count, percentages of 4 and 5 mm pockets (Mann–Whitney and z-test, p