Filipino endocrinologists' awareness of the diabetes - periodontal disease interrelationship

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Periodontitis and Diabetes Mellitus are both inflammatory conditions that trigger the host response in a similar manner. The effect of uncontrolled diabetes on the progression of periodontitis, as well as the effect of periodontal health on the glycemic control of a patient, have been well documented. The need to include oral health in the management of a diabetic patient is deemed necessary. The objective of this study is to determine the awareness of the interrelationship between diabetes and periodontal disease among Endocrinologists in the Philippines and to determine whether management of a diabetic patient includes measures on maintaining periodontal health.

Methodology: A 20-item self-administered survey questionnaire was distributed to endocrinologists
registered in the Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PSEDM) Seminar and General Assembly held on September 5-6, 2015 at Sofitel Manila, Pasay City. The questionnaire was comprised of eight multiple choice and 12 yes-no questions, which combined queries on demographics, associations between diabetes and periodontitis as well as patient management.

Results: Most of the endocrinologists answered that tooth brushing and flossing should be performed at a minimum of twice a day (96.6%) and that frequency of dental visits should be at least every six months (71.3%). Although most endocrinologists claimed to be aware of the manifestations of gingivitis and periodontitis, only 3.6% accurately identified the symptoms of gingivitis and 3% accurately identified the symptoms of periodontitis. Majority (79.2%) were aware that periodontal disease affects Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and that DM is a risk factor for Periodontitis (95.9%). However, only 38.6% noted periodontitis as one of the complications of diabetes. More than half of the respondents refer their patients to dentists but less than half educate their patients on oral health.

Conclusion: More than 90% of the Endocrinologists are aware of the bidirectional relationship of Periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus but do not clearly know the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis. In addition, the awareness is not translated to the management of diabetic patients.