The Impact of Integrated Oral Care Intervention Provided by Endocrinologists on Oral Health and Well-being in Diabetes Patients

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to assess whether simple oral care actions performed by endocrinologists during routine diabetes clinic visits can improve symptoms of dry mouth, also called xerostomia, and enhance oral health-related quality of life for adult diabetes patients. The study focuses on patients experiencing dry mouth, a common condition in diabetes that affects eating, speaking, and overall oral health. It also explores how oral care can be integrated into regular diabetes management in settings with limited dental care access. The intervention involves training endocrinologists to screen for dry mouth using a brief question and the Xerostomia Inventory, examine the mouth for dryness signs, provide brief counseling on hydration and oral hygiene, prescribe saliva substitutes like sprays or gels, and refer patients to dental services if needed. This integrated oral care is delivered during regular diabetes clinic visits, and all participants receive the intervention. Assessments occur before and after the intervention to evaluate changes. Participants will be followed from baseline through follow-up visits to measure changes in dry mouth severity and oral health quality of life using validated tools including the Xerostomia Inventory and Oral Health Impact Profile 14. Oral health status will be clinically assessed with the Oral Health Assessment Tool. The study will also evaluate how well the intervention is adopted and delivered by providers, and explore barriers and facilitators through interviews. The total participation duration includes assessments up to two months after the intervention with implementation outcomes monitored up to six months.

Integrated Oral Care Intervention for Xerostomia in Diabetes Patients