Dental caries-associated risk factors and type 1 diabetes mellitus.
BACKGROUND
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is associated with various oral complications. However there is no consensus regarding the association of T1DM and caries.


OBJECTIVE
Critical revision of dental caries-associated risk factors and type 1 diabetes mellitus.


METHODS
Search of the MEDLINE and LILACS databases from 2000 to 2010, using, in different combination, the key words "dental caries", "diabetes mellitus" and "type 1 diabetes mellitus".


RESULTS
The association between T1DM and dental caries remains controversial. Although some studies demonstrate a higher prevalence of caries due to the increased concentration of salivary glucose, acidity of the oral cavity, salivary viscosity, reduced salivary flow rate, and salivary gland dysfunction; other studies report a reduction of caries levels, probably caused by decreased ucrose ingestion.


CONCLUSIONS
Although patients with uncontrolled T1DM and poor oral hygiene may present increased prevalence of dental caries, the literature does not describe a consistent relationship between T1DM and dental caries. Further investigations are warranted. If a true association is substantiated, intervention studies to prevent or reduce the occurrence of caries in this population should follow.
Federal University of Bahia, Bahia, Brazil.
Norma
N
Sampaio
Sandra
S
Mello
Cresio
C
Alves
D015897:Comorbidity; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D003733:Dental Caries Susceptibility; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin / Q000032:analysis; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D009910:Oral Hygiene; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012463:Saliva / Q000382:microbiology
D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin