How sex and gender affect gum disease and diabetes

Sex/Gender influences on periodontal disease and diabetes: A population science approach, with software

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10916311

This study is looking at how gum disease and diabetes are connected, especially how these issues might affect men and women differently, to help create a tool that can guide people with Type-2 Diabetes on when they should see a dentist for better oral health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916311 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes, focusing on how these conditions may differ based on sex and gender. By analyzing large national health databases, the study aims to identify risk factors and interactions that contribute to oral health issues in individuals with Type-2 Diabetes. The researchers will develop a risk index to help prioritize patients for dental visits based on their unique health profiles. This approach seeks to improve understanding and treatment of these interconnected health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with Type-2 Diabetes and may also be experiencing periodontal disease.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those under 21 years old may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted dental care and improved health outcomes for patients with diabetes and periodontal disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between oral health and systemic diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes MellitusCardiovascular Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.