Oral Health Status and Its Association with Hba1c, Salivary Ph in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Introduction:  Diabetes mellitus (DM) with poor glycemic control is often linked to oral manifestations. Dental caries (DC), periodontitis are more prevalent in individuals with diabetes than in healthy individuals. Diabetes also leads to the reduction of salivary pH helping in multiplication of harmful microorganisms in the oral cavity causing deleterious effect on oral health status.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between oral health status and HbA1c levels, salivary pH among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods: A total of 148 T2D individuals were included. Case proforma has been made to record demographic data, DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth), OHIs (Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified), and PMA (Papillary-Marginal-Attached) indices. After obtaining ethical clearance, the HbA1c levels were estimated, and salivary pH was measured using a digital pH meter. The data was statistically analysed.

Results: The individuals were divided into two groups. Group 1(n=62) having HbA1c levels 6.5 – 7.9% and Group 2 (n=86) having ≥ 8%. Group 2 showed significantly lower salivary pH and higher DMFT and OHIs scores compared to Group 1. Additionally, the duration of diabetes was significantly associated with increased HbA1c, reduced salivary pH, and worsening scores across all oral health indices.

Conclusion: As there are no specific criteria for referring a diabetic patient to a dentist by general physicians unless they are showing any symptoms, we suggest that HbA1c, salivary pH can be considered as a criterion to motivate patients with poor glycemic control to have a regular dental checkup.