Saudi Journal of Oral and Dental Research (SJODR)
Volume-11 | Issue-02 | 50-55
Original Research Article
Dental Caries Prevalence in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Tripoli, Libya: A Single-Center Study
Abdurahman Musbah Elmezwghi, Naima M. El-Kakalli, Ahmed Mustafa Keshla, Abdulghani Alarabi3, Abeer Hussein Elsagali
Published : Feb. 7, 2026
Abstract
Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) presents significant public health issues, contributing to early mortality and complications. It encompasses Type 1, Type 2, gestational, and other specific forms, with Type 2 (T2DM) being associated with an increased risk of dental caries (DC). DC is an infection caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli, which feed on carbohydrates and produce acids that erode tooth minerals, leading to cavities. The level of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reflects long-term glycemic control, with higher levels correlating with elevated risks of developing DC. Aim of the Work: The current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of DC among Libyan patients with T2DM, including both those with controlled disease and those with uncontrolled disease. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on 440 Libyan patients with T2DM, collecting data on disease duration and complications from medical records. Dependent binary variables (DC) and independent variables such as age, gender, and glycemic control were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 21. Result: In a study of 440 Libyan individuals with T2DM, 56.8% presented with (DC), primarily affecting the 40-59 age group (46.2%). DC prevalence was higher among females (53.6%) than among males (46.4%). Among diabetic patients (DPs) with DC, 24.4% were classified as controlled, while 75.6% were uncontrolled. Conclusion: The findings indicate a higher prevalence of DC in Libyan DPs, particularly in those with uncontrolled T2DM, and this is more common in middle-aged populations and females.