Knowledge and practices of diabetes care providers in oral health care and their potential role in oral health promotion: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim: Oral health complications are common in people with diabetes yet very little is reported about the oral health care provided in diabetes care setting. This study reviewed global evidence on the oral health care knowledge and practices of diabetes care providers and the role of non-dental health professionals in oral health promotion.

Methods: A systematic search of five databases was undertaken with key search terms using a scoping review framework. Relevant studies published till October 2016 in the English language were included (n=30) and no restrictions were placed on the study design, quality or setting.

Results: Most diabetes care providers are not addressing oral health care with the main barriers being time constraints and limited oral health knowledge. Diabetes educators (DEs) could engage in oral health promotion with few studies showing this model of care can translate into improved patient outcomes. However, no appropriate oral health training programs and assessment tools exist for DEs. With proper training, non-dental professionals like nurses have successfully incorporated oral healthcare in other settings.

Conclusions: DEs are well placed to promote oral health in diabetes care setting. Further research is needed to identify barriers and oral health resources to support DEs in this role.

Keywords: Diabetes care provider; Diabetes mellitus; Model of care; Non-dental professional; Oral health care.