Because diabetes negatively impacts the immune system's normal response to inflammation and wound healing, it can also wreak havoc in your mouth through periodontal (gum) disease. In fact, if left untreated, periodontal disease can cause bone loss and eventually the loss of teeth—regardless of whether or not you are diabetic. These reasons make it critical, especially if you are diabetic, pre-diabetic, or if diabetes runs in your family’s medical history—that you understand what periodontal disease is, its causes, and its relationship to your overall health.

When it comes to taking care of your diabetes, most people are aware of the basics—taking your medicine, routine blood sugar monitoring, and eating healthy—but did you know that brushing and flossing everyday along with your routine six-month dental checkups are other steps you can take? And by telling your dentist that you are diabetic, you are adding one more healthcare professional to your team for monitoring this chronic disease.

With over 23 million people suffering from diabetes in the US and over 170 million worldwide, you may not know that it often goes hand-in-hand with periodontal disease. While both are chronic inflammatory diseases, periodontal disease can make diabetes worse and vice versa. The good news is that evidence shows that periodontal therapy is associated with improved blood sugar control in many patients with both diseases, and the fact that diabetic control improves periodontal outcomes. This means that by obtaining and maintaining good oral health, you have one more tool in helping you manage your diabetes.