Incorporating oral-systemic evidence into patient care: practice behaviors and barriers of North Carolina dental hygienists

The purpose of this survey research was to determine what practice behaviors are prevalent among North Carolina (NC) Dental Hygienists (DH) regarding the incorporation of oral-systemic evidence into practice as well as perceived barriers to implementation. A questionnaire was developed to survey 859 dental hygienists responding to mailed invitation to participate. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square analysis. Fifty percent of DH are extremely likely to refer patients to a medical provider for follow up assessments. Conditions DH are likely to discuss with patients include tobacco use (89%), pregnancy (84%), and genetics (79%). Significant barriers to implementing oral-systemic evidence include lack of time (52%), concern over legal risks (44%), and lack of education (27%). The findings indicate that NC DH are implementing some aspects of oral-systemic evidence into practice but could take a more active role if they had more allotted time, education and training