Parental priorities in oral health education for children with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in paediatric patients has increased in recent years. A review of the literature has indicated that children with T1DM are at a higher risk of gingivitis, bleeding on probing and presence of dental plaque than their peers, and may be at higher risk of dental caries. This information, as well as considerations of a life-course approach, and the need for parental/carer involvement, suggests this paediatric population should be provided with oral health advice that is co-created by the parents/carers, through public and patient involvement (PPI).

Objective: To work with an established PPI group of parents of children with T1DM and identify the oral health information to be communicated to children with T1DM and their families.

Methods: A previously established PPI panel (with ethical approval) - TEENVOICET1D - was introduced to the task of supporting researchers, to identify relevant oral health information for dissemination. PPI members were provided with an opportunity in which they could discuss oral health as related to children with T1DM. Anonymous information sharing methods were also provided.

Results: The knowledge exchange during PPI engagement provided positive learning outcomes for all involved. The oral health information suggested by the parents touched on multiple themes, such as: the need to work with diabetes teams to incorporate dental health into hospital information; child-friendly brushing instructions; straw use to protect teeth from sugar ingestion during hypoglycaemic episode management and every day; advocating for pit and fissure sealants; instructions for braces; information on oral health products; flossing from onset of all permanent teeth; and regular dental check-ups.

Conclusion: This PPI engagement provided an opportunity to collect oral health information which is important to the target population. Future research is planned where this information will be incorporated into future dissemination opportunities.