Context: Dry mouthis one of the most common and most unpleasant symptoms for which patients often seek help from a dentist or physician. Studies showed higher prevalence ofxerostomia in DM patients than non-DM population, 12.5%-53.5% versus 0-30%. Smoking is one of the risk factors which reduces salivation and causes xerostomia. Saliva is the first biological fluid that is exposed to cigarette smoke, which contains numerous toxic compositions responsible for structural and functional changes in saliva.
Aim: To compare the incidence of xerostomia among smokers and non-smoker in diabetic patients.
Materials and methods: The study participants were divided into Group A and Group B. Group A consisted of 125 diabetic smokers and Group B consisted of 125 diabetic non-smokers. A validated closed ended standardized questionnaire was given to assess the degree of xerostomia. The questionnaire scores collected from various groups has been tabulated and data has been statistically analyzed.
Statistical Analysis: Chi Square test and SPSS version 22.0
Results: The xerostomic symptoms were statistically significant in diabetic smokers than diabetic non-smokers. Symptoms were even more statistically significant in bidi smoker than cigarette smokers (p<0.5).
Conclusion: Diabetic smokers are more prone for xerostomia than diabetic non-smokers and has to be made aware of the consequences.
