Knowledge In Action
Diabetes Management: The Oral Health Connection
Welcome to the latest installment of our monthly series — Knowledge in Action: Evidence-Based Insights for B.C. Dental Hygienists. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and practice by providing accessible summaries of relevant and timely research findings.
Key Findings
Systematic review highlights the power of oral health education in glycemic control
We are excited to bring you the latest insights from a systematic review on the crucial link between diabetes and oral health. This study underscores the importance of oral health education in improving glycemic control and overall quality of life for diabetic patients. Key takeaways include:
- Oral-Systemic Health: Growing body of evidence confirming the bidirectional relationship between oral health, especially periodontitis, and diabetes management.
- Educational Impact: Targeted educational programs delivered in small groups can enhance patients’ awareness of oral health and support behaviour change.
- Integrated Care: Integrating oral health education into diabetes care programs can improve quality of life for diabetic patients because there is a strong link between oral health and glycemic control.
Question: How can dental hygienists leverage their knowledge to support the integration of oral health education into diabetes management?
