Relationship Between Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Dental Caries Status with Related Oral Health Indicators in Children.

Objective: This study aims to explore the relationship between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and dental caries status along with related oral health indicators.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted with a retrospective analysis of 40 diagnosed T1DM patients (patient group) and 40 age- and gender-matched healthy children (control group) treated at our hospital from 2020 to 2023. All participants underwent oral health assessments and relevant clinical examinations. By comparing the levels of related indicators between diabetic patients and healthy children, this study provides a scientific basis for prevention and treatment.

Results: There was no significant difference in general baseline characteristics between the two groups (P>0.05). The levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2h PBG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were significantly higher in the patient group (P<0.05). The incidence of dental caries was significantly higher in the patient group (P<0.05). Additionally, the patient group had higher gingival bleeding index, plaque index, and probing depth (P<0.05). The salivary pH value in the patient group was also significantly higher (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and salivary immunoglobulin G (sIgG) between the groups (P>0.05). This study is limited by its small sample size (n=40 per group) and single-center retrospective design.

Conclusion: Type 1 diabetes mellitus may alter saliva composition, while hyperglycemia can cause gingival inflammation and affect periodontal health. These changes may interfere with tooth mineralization, increasing caries risk in children.