Good bacteria vs. gum disease: could probiotics help diabetics?

NCT ID NCT07598656

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether applying a probiotic (Lactobacillus reuteri) directly into gum pockets, alongside standard deep cleaning, improves gum health in people with type 2 diabetes. Fourteen adults with moderate to severe gum disease and controlled diabetes took part. Each person received both the probiotic and a placebo (distilled water) on different sides of the mouth, and gum measurements were tracked for 6 months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Lactobacillus reuteri probiotic

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, natural add-on treatment to improve gum health in people with diabetes.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early study with only 14 participants. The probiotic may not provide extra benefit over standard care, and results may not apply to everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for DIABETES are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

diabetes mellitus periodontitis type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mahsa University

    Hulu Langat, Selangor, 42610, Malaysia