Effect of Acrylic Removable Partial Denture in Caries Prevalence Among Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Patients

BACKGROUND: Dental caries is the most prevalent dental disease affecting human race. The etiology and pathogenesis of dental caries are known to be multifactorial. Studies have shown that removable partial dentures in the oral cavity increases the biofilm formation and consequently an increase in the occurrence of caries and periodontal diseases. There is a complex relationship between diabetes mellitus and dental caries. Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to oral sensory, periodontal, and salivary disorders which could increase the risk of developing new and recurrent dental caries. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of dental caries among diabetic and non-diabetic acrylic removable partial denture wearers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Individuals participating in the study were partially edentulous and aged between 18 and 64 years. Patients were screened at Out patient department (OPD) in the Department of Prosthodontics JSSDCH, among which 60 patients were diabetic based on the random blood sugar level more than 160 mg/dl—30 patients were wearing RPD and 30 were without RPD. And 60 non-diabetic patients were selected among which 30 were wearing RPD and 30 without RPD. A total 120 patients were screened. Dental caries prevalence was assessed using Decayed, Missing, Filled (DMFT) index. RESULTS: Diabetic group unrehabilitated with removable partial prosthesis showed significant difference in the number of missing teeth when compared to non-diabetic patients without removable prosthesis (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Removable partial denture prosthesis had less impact on prevalence of dental caries with good oral hygiene, following post insertion RPD instructions and regular dental visits irrespective of diabetes.