The Diabetes-Gum Disease Connection

If you have diabetes, it's important to take good care of your teeth and gums.¹ Why? Gum disease can make your diabetic condition worse.¹ And if you don't have diabetes, good dental care can lower your chances of developing periodontal (gum) diseases.¹

What's the connection? Research suggests that the relationship between gum disease and diabetes is a two-way street.¹ One disease impacts the other. Over time, it can become a vicious cycle.¹

Because diabetes reduces the body's ability to fight infection, the gums are likely to be affected.⁴ Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gum and bone.⁴ People with uncontrolled blood sugar have a tendency to develop periodontal diseases more often and more severely.⁴ They're also more likely to lose more teeth than people who have their diabetes under control.⁴

If you do have diabetes, tell your dentist. Be sure to get regular checkups every six months.² Remember to brush your teeth gently, at least twice a day, with special attention to the gum line.³

¹ "Living With Diabetes: Diabetes and Oral Health Problems." American Diabetes Association. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral.html. Accessed 2009.

² "Living with Diabetes: Your Health Care Team." American Diabetes Association. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/who-is-on-your-healthcare-team/your-health-care-team.html. Accessed 2009.

3 "Oral Health Topics A-Z: Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums (Oral Hygiene)." American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/cleaning.asp. Accessed 2009.

⁴ "Oral Health Topics A-Z: Diabetes and Your Oral Health." American Dental Association. www.ada.org/public/topics/diabetes_faq.asp. Accessed 2009.