Periodontitis is a set of inflammatory conditions that affects the oral tissues. In its early stage it is called gingivitis – gums get swollen and bleed. Late-stage periodontitis results in bone and tooth loss. At an early stage of the disease the costs of treatment are relatively low. Left untreated restorative procedures with crowns based on bridges or implants are necessary.

Diabetes mellitus is a group of chronic endocrine disorders characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient levels of insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar. Epidemiological data confirms that diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis. Compared to the general population the likelihood of getting periodontitis is threefold higher in people with diabetes. Diabetic individuals with a severe form of periodontal disease have 3.2 times greater mortality risk than individuals with no or mild periodontitis.

Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease. Heart attacks and strokes are usually acute events that are mainly caused by a blockage which prevents blood from flowing to the heart or brain. Heart attacks and strokes are usually caused by a combination of risk factors, including: tobacco use, unhealthy diets, obesity, hypertension and diabetes.