Oral Yeasts Carriage in Prediabetic Smokers and Nonsmokers

Habitual smoking and prediabetes are independent risk factors for increased oral yeasts carriage (OYC); however, no studies have compared OYC amongst cigarette smokers and nonsmokers with and without prediabetes. The aim was to fill this research gap.

Ninety-two participants were included and categorised into 4 groups: group 1, prediabetic (haemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] levels, 5.7%-6.4%) cigarette smokers; group 2, cigarette smokers without prediabetes; group 3, prediabetic nonsmokers; and group 4, nonsmokers without prediabetes. Patient demographics and HbA1c levels were recorded. Data on duration of smoking habit (pack-years) and family history of smoking were collected. Information on daily toothbrushing and flossing and most recent visit to a dentist/dental hygienist was gathered. Clinical and radiographic periodontal examination was performed and unstimulated whole salivary flow rate (UWSFR) was determined. OYC was assessed using the oral rinse sampling method. Power analysis was done, and group comparisons were performed. Logistic regression analysis was performed and P values <5% reflected statistical significance.

Respectively, 23, 24, 22, and 23 individuals with comparable mean ages were included in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4. In groups 1 and 2, participants had a smoking history of (mean ± SD) 24.7 ± 3.2 and 10.6 ± 2.5 pack-years. Plaque index, clinical attachment loss, and probing depth were higher in groups 1 (P < .05), 2 (P < .05), and 3 (P < .05) than in group 4. Number of missing teeth was significantly higher in group 1 compared with groups 2 (P < .05), 3 (P < .05), and 4 (P < .05). There was no difference in UWSFR amongst the groups. OYC was greater in group 1 than in groups 2 (P < .05), 3 (P < .05), and 4 (P < .05). OYC was greater in groups 2 (P < .05) and 3 (P < .05) than in group 4.

In prediabetic cigarette smokers, OYC appears to be influenced by hyperglycaemia, whilst in nondiabetic smokers, the severity of periodontal inflammation appears to be the determining factor in OYC.