Survey of diabetes knowledge and practices of dental hygienists

Increasing incidence of diabetes in the United States and risk for more severe periodontal disease in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes make it essential to provide access to education to prepare oral health providers to care for this population.

The purpose of this survey was to assess the dental hygienist's diabetes knowledge, beliefs concerning the disease, and clinical practices to identify professional continuing education needs. analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to determine if significant differences existed in the amount of muscle activity generated with each fulcrum.

A 5-part survey was constructed using the American Diabetes Association 2007 Clinical Practice Guidelines and the American Association of Periodontology Commissioned Review of diabetes and periodontal disease. Invitations to participate were disseminated electronically to American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) members. A convenience sample of dental hygienists (n=392) representing 48 states participated.

The majority of the respondents were female (99%), ages 41 to 60 (60.1%), and in practice more than 16 years (58.3%). Major deficits in knowledge were associated with the patient's hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value and implications for diabetes control (50%). The survey responses indicated confusion about the current classifications of diabetes with 70% of respondents using classifications that are no longer recognized. Seventy-five to 90% of participants were unfamiliar with the impact of various types of diabetes medications on dental care.

Dental hygienists in this survey demonstrated a need for enhancing knowledge about diabetes as it applies to clinical patient care. The areas of greatest need included the American Diabetes Association Clinical Practice Guidelines for standards of care, diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, medications, and best practices for interacting with other health professionals when caring for people with diabetes.