Comparison of Oral Health Index and Salivary Levels of Calcium, Phosphorus, and Urea between Hemodialysis Patients and Control Group: Results of a Hospital-Based Case-Control Study

Background: Patients with end-stage renal disease are at risk of dental and periodontal problems. The aim of this study was to compare the oral health index and salivary levels of calcium, phosphorus, and urea between dialysis patients and the control group. Methods: Hemodialysis patients and a control group of outpatients referring to the hospital clinics were selected for a case-control study. Socio-demographic data and the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index were collected using a questionnaire and dental examination by a dentist, respectively. The calcium, phosphorus, and urea levels were measured in unstimulated saliva samples. Independent t test was used to compare the mean DMFT index, calcium, phosphorus, and urea levels between the two groups. Results: A total of 50 dialysis patients and 50 control individuals were included in the study. Compared to the control group, dialysis patients had higher mean DMFT index (mean difference [MD]: 7.7, standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.83; P<0.001), calcium level (MD: 1.8, SMD: 1.22; P<0.001), phosphorus level (MD: 18.9, SMD: 2.3; P<0.001), and urea level (42.7, 2.81; P<0.001). Conclusion: Dialysis patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis had worse dental and periodontal status compared to the control group. The oral and dental health status of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) should be regularly evaluated and monitored.