Prevalence, correlates and treatment needs of dental caries in patients attending a diabetic clinic in rural southwestern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Diabetes mellitus is a complex heterogeneous metabolic disorder known to lead to several pathogenic disorders, and has a bidirectional relationship with oral health conditions. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence, treatment needs and correlates of dental caries among adult patients attending a diabetic clinic in Uganda. Methods This was a cross-sectional study that used questionnaires to collect data on socio-demographic factors, diabetes history, oral health status, dental health care, dietary factors, lifestyle factors, and dental examination guided by the modified World Health Organization oral health questionnaire for adults. Results We enrolled 239 participants, prevalence of dental caries was 71.6%, treatment need was nearly 100%, and mean DMFT was 3.82 (SD = 5.46). Dental caries experience was associated with being widowed. Conclusion We found a high prevalence of dental caries experience and large treatment need among our participants. We recommend integration of oral health care into routine diabetic services in rural sub Saharan Africa.