Caries status and Salivary alterations of Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction 
The association between dental caries, salivary alterations, and Type-1 diabetes mellitus (D1TM) remains inconclusive in children and adolescents. This systematic review evaluated the caries status and salivary alterations of children and adolescents suffering from D1TM. Methods Meta-analysis searched from 5 electronic databases was performed considering the DMF(T), DMFS and dmft index for caries, and the stimulated flow rate, unstimulated flow rate and buffering capacity for salivary alterations. Quality assessments using the Healthcare Research and Quality Agency (AHRQ). Results 11 studies satisfied the eligibility criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that DMF(T) (0.61, 95% CI 0.14 to 1.08, P=0.01), dmft (-0.43, 95% CI -0.71 to -0.15, P=0.002) were significantly higher in D1TM group than the non-D1TM group. However, stimulated flow rate (-0.40, 95% CI −0.57 to -0.23, P Conclusions The level of DMF(T), dmft was higher in children/adolescents with D1TM than non-D1TM, and the salivary flow could be considered decreased with D1TM. The strength of the evidence of the studies analyzed, however, was deemed to be moderate and low.