Enhancing Communication Between Dental and Healthcare Providers

Objective:Diabetes is a risk factor for severe periodontal disease because the high levels of glucose in the mouth encourages bacterial growth and increases the patient’s susceptibility to infections. Despite the link between oral health and good diabetes control, dentists and primary care providers often do not make the link or communicate it to their patients. One strategy to address this problem is by holding a symposium focusing on assessing and treating patients with diabetes.

Methods:The symposium topic and presentation was developed in consultation with both dental and medical care providers. An evaluation was distributed to participants at the conclusion of the symposium.

Results:There were 64 dental and health care providers in attendance. Of the 18 participants that worked in medical offices or public health field, 44% (N=8  ) indicated that 6 months prior to attending the symposium they had never recommended their patients with diabetes see a dentist.  Of the 13 participants that worked in dental offices, 61% (N=8  ) had never or seldom recommended their patients with diabetes see a doctor.  After attending the symposium, 71% of the attendees (n=22), indicated that they will always recommend patients with diabetes see a primary care provider or dentist, as appropriate.   

Conclusion:Medical care and dental care providers can work together by providing consistent messages to people with diabetes and addressing the benefits of both diabetes control and oral health. A symposium of just two hours can generate provider behavioral intentions to collaborate.