Oral Health in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Relation to Metabolic Control

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral health of children with type 1 diabetes in relation to the level of glycemic control. 87 children aged 10 to 15 participated in the study, divided into two groups according to the value of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c): 34 children with good metabolic control (HbA1c < 7.5%) and 53 children with poor metabolic control (HbA1c > 7.5%). Oral health was assessed using the index of carious, extracted and filled permanent teeth (DMFT), Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI). The Stimulated salivary flow rate, buffer capacity of saliva and the level of presence of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in saliva were measured. Participants filled out a questionnaire about oral hygiene habits and during visits to the dentist. The t-test and chi-square test were used, and the level of significance was p < 0.05. Children with poor metabolic control had significantly more extracted teeth (p = 0.002), higher PI (p = 0.002), higher PI (p = 0.001) and higher risk for S. mutans and Lactobacillus (p < 0.005). There were no significant differences in the KEP index, saliva flow, buffering capacity of saliva, hygiene habits, dental visits and socioeconomic status (p > 0.05). Poor metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes is associated with poorer oral health, lower level of oral hygiene, increased risk of caries and periodontal disease due to the presence of pathogenic bacteria.

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