HbA1c in Dental Practices: Enhancing Patient Health Through Blood Glucose Screenings.

Periodontal disease and diabetes are highly prevalent chronic health conditions that have far-reaching implications, impacting health, economic well-being, and overall quality of life. With half of all American adults affected by periodontal disease1 and more than 422 million individuals impacted by diabetes globally,2 the need for effective strategies to manage these conditions is significant. Incorporating hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing into routine dental visits provides dental professionals an opportunity to improve patient health outcomes. This article explores the importance of HbA1c testing in dental practices and the benefits of dental-medical collaboration in managing periodontal disease and diabetes.