THE CORRELATION OF BLOOD GLUCOSE TO THE NUMBER OF BACTERIA IN THE SALIVA OF DIABETES MELITUS PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a persistent non-communicable disorder often found in the community. Patients with long-standing diabetes and uncontrolled blood glucose cause high salivary glucose levels and decreased salivary flow. Such alterations create a milieu conducive to bacterial proliferation, thereby increasing the risk of oral discomfort and a range of infections in the oral cavity. Purpose: This study aims to determine the correlation between blood glucose and the number of bacteria in the saliva of Diabetes mellitus patients. Method: This research is a correlational research based on a cross-sectional design. The study population comprised individuals receiving treatment for diabetes mellitus. A total of 32 participants were selected using the Slovin formula, and data collection utilized an accidental sampling approach. Data were collected through questionnaires, fasting blood sugar tests using the POCT (Point Of Care Testing) method, bacterial count in saliva using the TPC (Total Plate Count) method, and Gram staining. Results: The study showed that all respondents (100%) had high blood glucose and high bacterial counts. Data analysis was carried out using the Kolmogorov Smirnov statistical test followed by the Pearson correlation test. The results of statistical analysis revealed a very strong and significant positive correlation between blood glucose and bacterial count (p = 0.000; r = 0.923). In addition, the bacterial composition shows the dominance of Gram-positive bacteria (55.2%) compared to Gram-negative (44.8%). Conclusion: There is a correlation between blood glucose and the number of bacteria in the saliva of Diabetes mellitus patients.

Keywords: Blood Glucose; Number Of Bacteria