Knowledge of Dental Caries Status in Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that has a significant impact on dental and oral health, including a high risk of dental caries. The level of individual knowledge about oral health care is considered to have an important role in preventing caries in patients with diabetes mellitus. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the level of knowledge and the status of dental caries in patients with diabetes mellitus. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design involving 61 diabetes mellitus selected by purposive sampling from the Dentica Pondok Labu clinic, South Jakarta. Knowledge data were obtained through a validated questionnaire, while caries status was measured using the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) index. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test. Results: The average knowledge score of respondents was 75.14 ± 12.16 (scale 0-100). The average DMFT index was 7.38 ± 3.707. Chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between the level of knowledge and the DMFT index (p < 0.000). Conclusion: This study shows that the level of knowledge has a significant relationship with the status of dental caries in patients with diabetes mellitus. More intensive educational efforts about dental and oral health are needed to reduce the risk of caries in patients with diabetes mellitus.