A PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE | by Mia L. Geisinger, DDS, MS
An increasing number of people are using glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1-RA) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor agonist (GIPR) medications for both glycemic control and weight loss. These medications are often referred to as “incretin mimetics,” and they target physiologic processes that are involved with dysglycemia, nutrient metabolism, and nutrient storage. Given the relative novelty of this drug class, it is important that dental health-care professionals understand their mechanisms of action, common side effects, and impacts on oral and overall health. This course will review the functions of GLP-1-RA and GIPR medications, their intended and side effects, and the clinical implications for care in the dental setting.
Educational objectives
Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:
- Describe the mechanisms of action and rationale for use of GLP-1-RA and GIPR medications
- Critically evaluate side effects of GLP-1RA and GIPR medications and their implications for dental health-care professionals
- Evaluate the impact of GLP-1RA and GIPR medications on oral health, including xerostomia, halitosis, and periodontal disease
- Understand the clinical implications for patients seeking dental care who are taking GLP-1-RA and GIPR medications
About the Author
Mia L. Geisinger, DDS, MS, is a professor and director of advanced education in periodontology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Dr. Geisinger received her BS in biology from Duke University, her DDS from Columbia University School of Dental Medicine, and her MS and certificate in periodontology and implantology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Geisinger is a diplomate in the American Board of Periodontology. She has served as the president of the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation (AAPF), as the chair of the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs, and on multiple national and regional organized dentistry committees. She currently serves as the vice president of the AAP and on the Board of Directors for the ADA Science & Research Institute. She has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications, and she lectures nationally and internationally on topics in periodontology and oral health care.
Quick Access Code: 22433
Photo credit: David Petrus Ibars / E+ / Getty Images
Course Includes
- 1 Lesson
- 1 Test
- Course Certificate
CE credit(s): 3
Course Type: Written
Published Date: NOVEMBER 2025
This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.
This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.
Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.
Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.
Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.
CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.
Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.
Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.
Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.
Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.
Registration: The cost of this CE course is $39.00 for 3 CE credits.
Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.
Provider information:
Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: 3-5933-22433. Expires OCTOBER 2028. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”
Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
11/1/2024 to 10/31/2028.
Provider ID# 320452
AGD code: 130
Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHEBM (January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2026). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code: AADHEBM-379-11-2025-3
Endeavor Business Media is an ADA CERP–recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.
