Glycaemic Control and Dental Caries Prevalence in Older Adults With Diabetes mellitus in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor
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Abstract
Introduction: As populations age, the prevalence of chronic diseases like Diabetes mellitus (DM) and associated oral health complications, such as dental caries, increases. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the dental caries prevalence among older adults with DM in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Materials and methods: Participants aged ≥60 years with DM were recruited from government health clinics. Data on sociodemographic, HbA1c levels, oral hygiene practices, and other risk factors were collected through questionnaires and medical records. Oral examinations were conducted to determine the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index and plaque scores. Associations between variables and DMFT scores were analysed using independent t-tests and non-parametric tests. Results: A total of 111 participants were examined. Participants with uncontrolled diabetes had significantly higher DMFT scores (16.51) compared to those with controlled diabetes (13.19) (p=0.007). Ageing was associated with higher DMFT scores, peaking at 22.00 for those aged ≥75 years (p=0.029). Although not statistically significant, lower education levels and socioeconomic backgrounds tended to have higher DMFT means. Good oral hygiene practices, especially flossing, were associated with lower caries (p=0.001), whereas alcohol consumption was linked to higher caries (p=0.037). Conclusion: Poor glycaemic control, advancing age and alcohol use are significant risk factors for increased dental caries experience among older adults with DM. The findings highlight the importance of good oral hygiene and integrating medical and dental care. Emphasis should be placed on risk-stratified screening, targeted preventive interventions, and improving access to care for this vulnerable population.
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