There is limited knowledge of the relationships between oral health and diabetes. The more knowledgeable doctors are, the more likely they are to make dental referrals. Screening and referral by health professionals may benefit diabetic patients by improving access to dental care. Therefore, there is a need to educate doctors about oral health and diabetes.

ONJ associated with IV bisphosphonate therapy is extremely difficult to manage. Dental treatment of ONJ should be conservative and provide relief to the patient. Patients with cancer who are candidates for IV bisphosphonate therapy should be informed of the potential risks and be referred for dental evaluation. Dentists should collaborate with physicians to minimize the risk for ONJ.

Approximately half of all periodontists provide i.v. sedation, with more recent periodontal graduates more likely to personally offer and administer i.v. sedation services for their patients. Regional differences exist in the use and training of i.v. sedation.