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Review
. 2025 Jun 17:12:1606223.
doi: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1606223. eCollection 2025.

The role of HbA1c in the bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and diabetes and related interventions: a narrative review

Yudie Du #  1   2 , He Xiao #  1   2 , Ruihan Luo  1   2 , Guangyi Li  1   2 , Yixing Ren  1   2   3
Affiliations
Review

The role of HbA1c in the bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and diabetes and related interventions: a narrative review

Yudie Du et al. Front Nutr. .

Abstract

Objective: The intricate relationship between periodontitis and diabetes mellitus (DM) has emerged as a focal point in contemporary medical research. This study aimed to explore the role of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in this relationship, examine the mechanistic theories that may underlie this connection, and summarize effective interventions.

Methods: Articles were retrieved from PubMed/Medline and Web of Science. All studies focusing on this bidirectional relationship were included and evaluated.

Results: Several mechanism theories have been proposed, including alterations in oral flora, suppression of anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic control mechanisms in periodontitis, gene silencing due to reduced DNA demethylation, and significantly lower quantitative levels of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). Non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is an effective intervention, and based on this, systemic antibiotics and propolis can also be used. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is also an adjunct to periodontal therapy, with indocyanine green currently receiving increased attention.

Discussion: HbA1c links periodontitis and DM bidirectionally, with elevated levels contributing to the worsening of periodontal disease and tooth loss. Studies have confirmed this association in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals, although some findings remain conflicting. While HbA1c may predict diabetes risk and periodontal severity, further research is needed to clarify this relationship.

Conclusion: There is a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and DM, with HbA1c playing an important role in this relationship. However, this study has certain limitations regarding selection bias and methodology, necessitating further mechanistic exploration and clinical validation in subsequent research.

Keywords: diabetes mellitus; glycated hemoglobin; non-surgical periodontal therapy; periodontitis; photodynamic therapy.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Inducement and parameters of periodontal disease.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Scaling and root planing.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Mechanism of aPDT. PS, photosensitizer.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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