Calcium and Iron in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Periodontitis

Micronutrients like calcium and iron play an essential role in regeneration, for coping with oxidative stress and for an adequate immune response. Hence, these elements are essential for maintaining health throughout life. Micronutrients can cause diseases through deficiency, imbalance, or toxicity. Studies have shown that elevated Ca and Fe levels may be a contributing factor in many inflammatory conditions. Diabetes mellitus has been found to be a risk factor for periodontal disease and is a strong example of how systemic health and oral health are closely related. Chronic periodontitis, the most common form of periodontal disease found in diabetic patients, is an inflammatory infection caused by bacteria that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth. It is irreversible and involves the loss of gingival attachment and decreased bone levels. Minerals in the blood would show a reduction or exaggeration according to the intensity of pathogenicity. Excess level of calcium and iron in the serum are associated with an increased alveolar bone loss and oxidative stress which can predispose an individual to the risk of developing periodontitis leading to various diabetes complications.