Diabetes and oral health
Oral health issues linked with diabetes
- Gum disease
- Slow healing after extractions or oral surgery
- Oral infections including fungal infections such as thrush
- Dry mouth and taste impairment
Your oral health professional needs to know...
- if you have diabetes
- if you have trouble keeping your blood sugar levels under control
- if you notice changes in your mouth, such as patches of whitish-coloured skin
- if there have been other changes in your medical history
- the names of any medications (prescription as well as over-the-counter drugs) you are taking
How you can improve your oral health
- Seek help to QUIT smoking - smokers have higher levels of gum disease, caused by poor blood circulation in the tissues around their teeth. People with diabetes who smoke have an even greater chance of having severe gum problems than non-smokers and non-diabetics.
- Look for early signs of gum disease
- Follow your healthy eating plan and take prescribed medications as instructed by your doctor
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. It is recommended to clean between teeth daily using a floss or interdental brush.
- If you have dentures, remove them overnight and clean them daily
- Visit your oral health professional regularly
- Book your appointments for the morning when your insulin level is more stable
- Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels and good oral hygiene helps minimise oral health issues
Diabetes and Oral Health brochure
This oral health resource, developed by the Australian Centre for Integration of Oral Health (NSW) and adapted for Victoria in 2024 by DHSV and Monash Health, supports Diabetes Care Providers in educating patients on link between diabetes and oral health. Endorsed by key organisations, it includes guidance on gum disease, preventive care, dietary advice, and dental referrals.
Download the Diabetes and Oral Health brochure
