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

NCT ID NCT07598656

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Mahsa University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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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.

DIABETES PERIODONTITIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mahsa University

Hulu Langat, Selangor, 42610, Malaysia

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