Oral Health: An Untapped Resource in Managing Glycemic Control in Diabetes and Promoting Overall Health

• Prevalence of periodontitis is high in persons with uncontrolled diabetes
• The hyperglycemia in uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe periodontal disease
• Periodontal infection in diabetes patients can adversely affect glycemic control
• Periodontal treatment improves glycemic control and can reduce complications
• Inter-professional collaboration can lead to early diagnosis and promote health

Periodontitis was declared the sixth complication of diabetes in 1993, and it is the sixth most common disease globally. Nonetheless, its 2-way relationship with diabetes is largely ignored by primary care providers. Poorly controlled diabetes predisposes to periodontitis. Periodontitis contributes to both the worsening of diabetes control and development of diabetes. Routine nonsurgical periodontal treatment improves glycemic control. In this article we describe simple, efficient ways for nurse practitioners to enhance oral health history-taking and examination, educate diabetes patients about their oral health needs, and promote collaborative relationships with dentists. This proactive approach can positively impact glycemic control and improve patients' health.