Integrated Laboratory Diagnostics, Oral Health–Dentistry Screening, And Primary Care Approaches For Early Detection And Comprehensive Management Of Diabetes

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus remains one of the most significant global public health challenges, with rising prevalence, delayed diagnosis, and substantial long-term complications. Early detection is essential for reducing morbidity, preventing progression, and improving metabolic outcomes. Traditionally, diabetes screening has relied primarily on laboratory-based diagnostics such as fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance testing, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). However, growing evidence highlights that integrating additional screening routes—particularly oral health assessment and primary care–based risk evaluation—may enhance detection rates, especially in populations with limited access or low screening adherence. This literature review synthesizes current evidence pertaining to three interconnected domains: (1) laboratory diagnostics for early detection of diabetes; (2) oral health and dentistry-based screening, particularly the role of periodontitis as a clinical indicator of dysglycemia; and (3) primary care approaches, including family medicine, general practitioners, and general physicians as frontline providers for diabetes risk assessment and comprehensive management. Findings demonstrate that periodontal disease is strongly associated with hyperglycemia, and dental clinics can serve as effective screening points. Laboratory biomarkers remain the diagnostic gold standard, but their effectiveness increases when embedded within multidisciplinary pathways. Primary care providers (Family Medicine- specialty, GP, General Physicians) play a central role in coordinating screening, interpreting laboratory findings, conducting risk assessments, and initiating management. Based on the reviewed evidence, an Integrated Diabetes Detection Pathway (IDDP) is proposed to link laboratories, dental, and primary care services, improving early detection and enabling more comprehensive, patient-centered management. The review concludes that integrated screening models enhance accessibility, improve case-finding, and promote continuity of care, demonstrating strong potential for adoption in primary healthcare centers and dentistry practices.