Comparison of dental caries experience and salivary electrolyte parameters among children aged 6-14 years with type 1 diabetes mellitus and healthy controls: An in vivo study.

BACKGROUND: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune disorder commonly affecting children and adolescents. Alterations in salivary composition and flow associated with diabetes may influence oral health, particularly dental caries. However, the relationship between dental caries and T1DM remains controversial. AIM: The aim of the study was to assess and compare dental caries experience and salivary electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, and chloride) among children aged 6-14 years with T1DM and healthy controls. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This in vivo cross-sectional comparative study included 70 children (35 with T1DM and 35 healthy controls). Dental caries was recorded using dmft/dmfs and DMFT/DMFS indices. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected and analyzed for sodium (Na + ), potassium (K + ), and chloride (Cl - ) using an electrolyte analyzer. Data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square and unpaired t -tests. RESULTS: Children with T1DM showed a lower mean dmft score (2.83 ± 2.23) compared to healthy controls (4.27 ± 3.41), though the difference was not statistically significant ( P = 0.059). Salivary sodium and chloride levels were significantly higher in the diabetic group ( P < 0.01), while potassium levels showed no significant difference between groups. CONCLUSION: Children with T1DM demonstrated altered salivary electrolyte composition with no significant difference in caries experience compared to healthy children. Dietary habits and metabolic control may play a protective role against dental caries in diabetic children. Early and regular oral health assessment should be an integral component of pediatric diabetes care.