Objective To evaluate the oral health-related quality of life(OHRQOL) in type 2 diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis. Methods A total of 80 type 2 diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis who had at least 16 teeth and never accept any periodontal therapy in latest one year were recruited. The clinical periodontal index such as probing depth, attachment loss(AL), modified bleeding index, plaque index were obtained with a Williams type periodontal probe. All accepted structured questionnaire interview including the evaluation of OHRQOL. Results The geriatric oral health assessment index(GOHAI) results demonstrated good content validity, construct validity and responsibility. The periodontal index had positive correlation with the GOHAI scores. Individuals with self-unsatisfied of oral health status, using hypoglycemic drugs, accompanied with serious gingival inflammation and higher AL had relatively poor OHRQOL. Conclusion The OHRQOL of type 2 diabetes with chronic periodontitis and the negative experiences of items listed in GOHAI questionnaire were affected by self-conscious of oral health and periodontal inflammation status.