Oral health care among patients with diabetes in Australia: A snapshot

Abstract

Abstract Background Diabetes increases the risk of periodontal disease, which in turn negatively impact on diabetes control and complications. Therefore, awareness about the diabetes-oral health link and dental problems is important for people with diabetes. This study aimed to assess self-reported oral health status and knowledge of people living with diabetes. Methods A survey was conducted among patients who attended four public diabetes clinics in Sydney, Australia. The questionnaire included 10 knowledge items and a validated Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) scale. A convenience sample of 200 patients were recruited. The data were analysed using SPSS software with descriptive and Pearson's Chi-Squared tests reported. Results The mean age of participants was 62.4(±13.5) years. More than half were males (54.5%), born overseas (64%), not working (73%) and had type 2 diabetes (88%). More than half (55.1%) of the patients reported having one or more dental problems and this was negatively associated with their oral health-related quality of life (p < 0.001). The most common dental problems were: gaps between teeth, pain in teeth and dry mouth. Only 46.2% of the participants had adequate oral health knowledge (> the mean correct score 5.2 (±2.6). The main areas with poor knowledge were around the impact of gum disease on blood glucose levels (29.6%), effects of dry mouth on tooth decay (33.8%) and the link between diabetes and teeth and gums (44.5%). Only 13% of the patients reported receiving oral health information from diabetes care providers (diabetes educator, general practitioner/diabetes specialist and dietitian/nutritionist). Receiving oral health information was found to be significantly associated with higher oral health knowledge scores (p < 0.05). Conclusions Considering that a majority of patients with diabetes have dental problems and inadequate oral health knowledge, diabetes care providers should take the opportunity to educate patients about oral health risks. Key messages People living with diabetes found to have dental problems and inadequate oral health knowledge. Considering that diabetes and dental problems adversely affect each other, it is crucial to educate patients about good oral hygiene and regular dental visit.