Diabetes and Dental Care

Objective:: To educate individuals with diabetes on the importance of good dental hygiene and the connection between oral health and diabetes. 

Methods:  WVU Extension Service collaborated with WVU School of Dentistry to develop a curriculum on diabetes and dental health.  This curriculum was designed to provide much needed oral health education to West Virginians with Diabetes.  The vehicle used to facilitate this information is the Dining with Diabetes program.  The  curriculum offers a comprehensive program consisting of hands-on, interactive training module with speaker notes, handouts and visual-aids to promote familiarity with oral structures and signs of dental disease. The program is available throughout the state with oral health educators serving as instructors.

Results: This curriculum is in its first year of use and to date has received very positive responses from the individuals who have attended the presentations.  We have also received positive comments from healthcare providers, oral health educators and Extension agents around the state who are delivering the program.  

Conclusion: Dental decay and gum disease are communicable infectious diseases linked to cardiovascular conditions, cancer, poor nutrition and diabetes. Individuals with Diabetes are twice as likely to be afflicted with periodontal disease leading to poor blood glucose control. Significant barriers exist for optimal dental health and preventive care for adults in West Virginia. Barriers such as cultural beliefs or misconceptions, low educational levels, lack of available services and financial constraints make it difficult for individuals with Diabetes to receive appropriate education, screening, and care. Good oral health is essential to overall wellness and even more imperative with individuals with Diabetes.