03/17/2026
If you have diabetes, you’re more likely to have oral health problems like cavities, and infections of the gums and bones that hold your teeth in place because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the area.
You should call your dentist if you:
🦷 Have bleeding or sore gums
🦷 Get infections often
🦷 Have bad breath that won't go away
Controlling your diabetes will go a long way toward protecting your teeth and gums. And that, in turn, will also help you manage your diabetes.
You’ll stop most tooth and gum disease before it has a chance to set in if you:
✔️ Keep your blood sugar in check.
✔️ Brush (use a toothbrush with soft bristles) and floss at least twice daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash.
✔️ Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing to protect any tooth enamel that's been softened by acid in the food.
✔️ If you smoke, quit.
✔️ Get a dental checkup every 6 months. Your dentist may recommend that you do it more often, depending upon your condition.
✔️ Let your dentist know that you have diabetes and what medicines you take. Let them know if your blood sugar level is off-track, and if you take insulin, tell them when you took your most recent dose.