LAUSR

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis by synthesizing the outcomes of studies that investigated the relationship between insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and salivary flow rate (SFR), salivary pH (SpH), salivary buffer capacity (SBC), streptococcus Mutans (SM), and lactobacillus (LB) counts. MATERIAL AND METHODS The PRISMA statement guide was followed for the meta-analysis. Electronic databases were searched, and study selection and data collection processes were performed. The risks of bias in individual studies and across studies were assessed. Mean differences (MD) and Odds Ratio (OR) were used to measure the effect estimates in the comparisons. RESULTS 29 studies were included in the qualitative and quantitative syntheses. Significantly higher SFR (MD=-0.22, CI:-0.26,-0.18;p<0.001) and SpH (MD=-0.59, CI:-0.81,-0.36;p<0.001) were observed in the healthy individuals than individuals with IDDM. No significant difference was observed among groups in terms of SBC (MD=0.10, CI:-0.46,0.66;p=0.73). An increased odds ratio of SM counts were observed regarding the IDDM (OR=3.09, 95% CI: 1.16, 8.20; p=0.02). No association was found between LB counts and IDDM (OR=2.15, 95% CI: 0.38, 11.98; p=0.38). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with IDDM have a significantly lesser SFR and SpH than healthy individuals. But no significant difference is available in terms of SBC. Lower SM counts were observed in individuals with IDDM, while no association was observed regarding LB counts. The tendency to dental caries is more likely for individuals with IDDM due to lower SFR, SpH, and higher SM. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.