Background:The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontal disease / periodontitis (PD) is high, and the association of these two as risk factors influencing each other has been recognized and is extensively documented. However, a majority of these association studies have been done in developed countries and / or in developing countries other than India.Objective:To review, quantify and qualify the status of the published indexed scientific literature regarding the bidirectional association of DM and PD in India.Method:An internet search of the literature was conducted to examine relevant association studies of DM and PD in India. As a matter of interest, the related articles were searched manually from one non-indexed national (India) publication of periodontology until October 2008. Specific focus was on indexed literature and only these were considered for the review.Result:Eleven pertinent indexed publications addressing the concern with regard to population in India were identified. Most of them were in agreement with the accepted mechanisms involving these two diseases, but more supported a unidirectional view of interaction, that is, advocating the role of DM in a worsened periodontal condition. One study with an opposite view was recognised.Conclusion:The paucity of such research in India, which will be a hub of diabetics in the near future, reflects the need to make available a strong body of evidence in the indexed literature relating not only to DM and its ‘sixth complication’, PD, but also the strong influence of PD on DM.

The glycemic status of the children affects the periodontal disease parameters. Salivary alkaline phosphatase levels could be a useful tool in analyzing periodontal status of children with uncontrolled type I diabetes mellitus.

Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism (IHP) is a rare endocrinopathic disorder, of idiopathic nature, characterized by a deficiency of parathyroid hormone causing low serum calcium (Ca) and high serum phosphorus concentrations. We present a case report ofa 40-year-old woman with complaint of bleeding gums and tingling sensation in fingers and toes reported to our department in March 2005 with no tangible diagnosis from previous medical examinations. Oral findings included abnormally short roots, cemental hyperplasia, widening of the periodontal ligament space and root resorption. Laboratory investigations revealed a low serum Ca level and along with the clinical findings, a diagnosis of IHP was reached. Oral prophylaxis was performed and Ca supplements were prescribed. We believe that this case report is a first of its kind reporting cemental hyperplasia, altered alveolar bone patterns and periodontal ligament widening in a patient with IHP.

IntroductionFurcal perforations compromise the health of the periradicular tissues and threaten the viability of the tooth. Perforation repair is a very attractive and frequently successful alternative to extraction of the involved tooth. Diagnosis and repair of furcal perforation, abscess have remained a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma for the clinician. We believe this case report is the first of its kind to compare the repair of furcal perforation due to iatrogenic causes with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and bone graft by conventional surgical technique and laser assisted periodontal therapy in mandibular molars. Case presentationTwo patients presenting with clinical presentation and diagnosis of furcal abscess due to iatrogenic causes were treated and followed up for six months. The furca were exposed surgically. The furcation area in one patient was debrided by conventional periodontal therapy while in the other laser assisted periodontal therapy was instigated using diode laser, and the perforation sealed with mineral trioxide, bone graft was placed in the interradicular area. Clinical and radiographic examinations were conducted at base line and 6 months. Conclusion:During the 6 month follow up satisfactory resolution of the clinical and radiographic defect in the interradicular region was achieved by both conventional surgical and laser assisted periodontal therapy.

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