Diabetes educators' knowledge, opinions and behaviors regarding periodontal disease and diabetes

The purpose of this study was to determine certified diabetes educators' (CDE) knowledge, behaviors and opinions about periodontal disease (PD) and diabetes. A questionnaire was distributed to CDEs who attended the 2009 American Association of Diabetes' Educators meeting and who provide counseling and education services to patients with diabetes. A total of 311 CDEs participated in the survey only responses from nurses and registered dietitians were included in the final analysis (N=284). Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were utilized. Nurses had a higher proportion of correct answers compared to registered dietitians for questions regarding knowledge of PD. Most (62%) agreed that CDEs need to collaborate with dental professionals in disease management and 84% indicated interest in an oral health component being added to their continuing education. The findings suggest that collaboration with the dental profession would be a positive outcome for CDEs, as would oral health topics being added to their continuing education courses.