Diabetes and Periodontal Disease: The Need for Interprofessional Patient Care.

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this clinical case presentation is to emphasize the importance of an interprofessional approach to health care. Specifically, this case will emphasize the importance of managing diabetes in a periodontal patient. Background: A 69 year old patient presented with the chief complaint of, “I want my teeth cleaned.” The medical history revealed several medications and conditions that could potentially impact the oral cavity. The patient presented with type II diabetes mellitus, which became uncontrolled during the treatment; was taking a calcium channel blocker to control his high blood pressure, and was using a bi-pap machine for his sleep apnea. The patient also was obese and gave a history of bariatric surgery, GERD, and recent back pain. Assessment: The initial clinical examination of this patient revealed generalized mild bone loss as evidenced by 3-4mm from the CEJ radiographically (generalized moderate plaque induced gingivitis with dark pink spongy tissue with bulbous papilla that did not adhere tightly to the tooth with bleeding) and generalized mild chronic periodontitis as evidenced by 4-5mm CAL and 6mm CAL associated with swollen gingiva. Localized severe periodontitis of 8mm CAL on tooth number 19 was present. Dental Hygiene Treatment Plan: Scaling and root planing was performed for selective areas along with a periodontal tissue re-evaluation. Treatment: The treatment was performed throughout three separate appointments. At the beginning of treatment the patient’s A1C was 8.5% and his blood glucose was 195 mg/dl. Results: The re-evaluation appointment revealed slight improvement in the health of the gingiva, but minimal to no improvement in probing depths. Conclusion: This case highlights the need for an interprofessional approach to patient care. Problems with diabetes management, as well as other contributing factors, have been known to impact periodontal therapy outcomes.