Correlation between xerostomia, hyposalivation, and oral microbial load with glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients

Aims and objectives: The present study is an attempt to investigate prevalence of xerostomia and hyposalivation in type 2 diabetes mellitus using a modified Schirmer test (MST) and finding any association between xerostomia, hyposalivation, and oral microflora, namely, Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp., and Candida spp. with the glycemic control of individual. Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and resulting in either lack or relative insufficiency of insulin. In addition to systemic alterations, oral manifestations of diabetes mellitus have been reported, such as xerostomia and hyposalivation, alteration in taste, caries, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Materials and methods: Thirty individuals with known history of diabetes mellitus type 2 were chosen as cases and 30 ageand sex-matched healthy controls were taken as control group. For assessment of hyposalivation, unstimulated salivary flow rate was measured using a MST with a commercially available Schirmer test strip having a millimeter scale (0-35 mm). Results: In our study, we found that the difference in the wettability of Schirmer strip among diabetics and healthy controls was more significant at the end of the 1st minute due to decreased salivary flow in diabetics. Conclusion: A n e arly a ssessment o f s alivary f low a nd xerostomia in type 2 diabetic patients and its treatment, along with routine oral hygiene and maintenance, may alter the clinical outcomes of diabetes.