Oral health status of diabetic patients visiting a private dental hospital, Chennai

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is the second most common non-communicable disease in India. There are various diseases of the oral cavity resulting as a complication of diabetes. This underlying systemic disease could affect the prognosis of any dental treatment. The aim of the study is to evaluate the prevalence of various types of oral lesions associated with diabetes. A total of 343 diabetic patients visiting the dental hospital in Chennai over a period of one year (1 June 2019 to 1 June 2020) were selected for the study. Detailed case history and clinical examination were carried out under visible light. The study population was age 30 years and above. Data collected were analysed using SPSS software and the results were recorded. The majority of the diabetic patients were males, aged 61-75 years. Dental caries was the most common oral disease, followed by pulpitis and periodontitis. The premalignant lesions like Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis, Lichen Planus and Leukoplakia were also found. It was found that male diabetic patients are more prone to oral diseases compared to females. Hence, it is recommended that awareness on oral hygiene and periodic oral health examination will improve the oral health status of diabetic patients.