In the words of Dr José Nart, professor of periodontology at the Faculty and president of the Spanish Society of Periodontology (SEPA), severe periodontitis aggravates or worsens diabetes, as it appears to increase insulin resistance in people suffering from this chronic metabolic disease. He also pointed out that while about 40% of the population suffers from periodontitis, the risk is three times higher in the case of people with diabetes.

Referring to the consequences of this oral pathology, Dr Nart highlighted "the loss of teeth and effects on chewing and smiling." On a systemic or general level, he stated that "it can increase the risk of suffering other pathologies, such as heart attacks, pneumonia, premature births, Alzheimer's and even cancer."

To avoid these situations, the head of periodontics at the Faculty recommends that people with diabetes "understand that it is essential to control their glycosylated haemoglobin level well, keeping it below 7%", as in this way "they are considered healthy patients and do not have an increased risk of suffering periodontitis." He also reminded us of the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and regular periodontal check-ups.

Finally, the professor of periodontology said that people with diabetes tend to be “more aware of the complications of uncontrolled diabetes, which include inflammation and infection of their gums and consequent bone loss around their teeth". This is in contrast to the fact that only 50% of the European population knows what periodontitis is.