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Teeth health

Teeth and gum health

People with diabetes are more likely to develop dental problems. You can reduce your risk by managing your diabetes and having regular dental checks and timely treatment.

Dental problems cause less damage when detected and treated early.

Have a dental check at least once a year. Your dentist will assess the health of your gums and teeth. If you have dentures, your dentist will look for pressure spots and check the fit of your dentures.

Blood glucose levels above your target range increase the risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, and gum infections or disease.

Signs of dental problems include a dry mouth and sore, swollen or bleeding gums. Dental problems can include tooth decay, gum infections (gingivitis) and gum disease. Tooth and gum infections can increase your risk of heart disease. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible if you notice any signs of tooth decay or gum disease.

You can protect your teeth and gums with regular brushing and flossing. Read more in our fact sheet or listen to our podcast.

Looking after your dental health fact sheet

Looking after your dental health is important, especially when you have diabetes. Caring for your teeth and gums and managing your blood glucose levels can help reduce your risk of dental problems.

Download now
Dental health podcast

Listen to our Annual cycle of care podcast series to learn more about dental health and seeing your dentist.

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It is essential to do an annual cycle of care to find any health problems early. Without regular checks, diabetes can lead to health problems that can affect your whole body, including your kidneys, eyes, feet, nerves and heart. Ask your doctor for the timing of health checks and targets that meet your individual health needs.

Read more in our fact sheet or listen to our podcast series.

Your diabetes annual cycle of care fact sheet

The diabetes annual cycle of care is a checklist for reviewing your diabetes management and general health each year.

Download now
Annual cycle of care podcast series

Listen to our Annual cycle of care podcast series to learn more about what it is, why it’s important, and what you need to know about it.

Available in other languages Listen now

Featured resources

Looking after your dental health fact sheet

Looking after your dental health is important, especially when you have diabetes. Caring for your teeth and gums and managing your blood glucose levels can help reduce your risk of dental problems.

Download now
Blood glucose monitoring fact sheet

Checking your blood glucose levels can help you manage your diabetes. You will be able to see what makes your numbers go ‘up’ or ‘down’.

Available in other languages Download now
Diabetes-related complications fact sheet

Looking after your diabetes is important for your long-term health. If your diabetes is well managed and you take care of your general health, you can reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Download now
Your diabetes annual cycle of care fact sheet

The diabetes annual cycle of care is a checklist for reviewing your diabetes management and general health each year.

Download now

Diabetes Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this Country. We recognise their connection to land, waters, winds and culture. We pay the upmost respect to them, their cultures and to their Elders, past and present. We are committed to improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by diabetes and those at risk.

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