PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF DRY SOCKET IN DIABETIC PATIENTS UNDERGOING TOOTH EXTRACTION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of dry socket in diabetic patients and its associated risk factors.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Foundation University College of Dentistry & Hospital (FUCD&H), Islamabad, from March to September 2024. A total of 499 diabetic patients who underwent tooth extractions were included. Data was collected for gender, age, number of visits, type of extraction, endodontic status, smoking history, physician’s experience, and blood sugar levels (BSR) at extraction. Statistical analyses, including chi-square and t-tests, were conducted to determine associations between these factors and dry socket occurrence.

Results: Out of 499 diabetic patients, 83 (16.6%) developed dry socket. The condition occurred more frequently in females (88%) than males (12%). Most patients with dry socket had two visits (83.1%). Dry socket was more common in non-surgical extractions (92.8%) than surgical (7.2%). Most cases (79.5%) were treated by students, with significantly fewer in patients treated by senior doctors, indicating the impact of operator experience. Non-root canal treated teeth had a higher incidence (89.2%). A significant association was found with smoking, as 36.1% of smokers developed dry socket. The mean BSR (Blood sugar random test levels) for affected patients was 188.42mg/dl.

Conclusion: The prevalence of dry socket in diabetic patients was significantly associated with the number of dental visits, smoking history, physician’s experience, and elevated blood sugar levels. These findings emphasize managing blood sugar and smoking cessation to reduce dry socket risk in diabetic patients.