Diabetes and Toothbrushing

If you have diabetes, studies suggest that good oral health may be helpful for overall health. Research has shown that people with diabetes who take care of their gums are more likely to have good glucose levels than those who have problems with their gums. Also, people who maintain a healthy glucose level are more likely to have healthy gums.

GUM DISEASE

Gum disease develops when bacteria build up beneath the gum line. This can happen if you do not take care of your mouth every day. Good oral care includes brushing your teeth twice per day (Figures 1 and 2 provide toothbrushing tips) and cleaning between them daily with floss or another product designed for this purpose. The American Dental Association says that you should brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes. Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about brushing your teeth. He or she can help you take good care of your teeth every day.

In the early stages of gum disease, your gums can become red and swollen. They may bleed, especially when you brush your teeth. Without regular care, including visits to your dentist, gum disease can get worse. It can damage the tissues beneath the gumline, including those that hold your teeth in place. Severe gum disease can cause teeth to loosen and possibly fall out. Gum disease can make it harder to maintain healthy glucose levels.

THE VALUE OF TOOTHBRUSHING

Toothbrushing is important in keeping gums healthy, but it also seems to be especially important for people with type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that people with type 2 diabetes who brush regularly have better control of their glucose levels.

CONCLUSIONS

If you have diabetes, talk to your dentist about how to take care of your teeth and gums

Figure 1. Place the bristles of a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle along the gumline. Gently move the toothbrush in toothwide circles along all of the tooth surfaces

Figure 2. To brush the back of your front teeth, angle the tip of the toothbrush on the inner surfaces and brush forward.

handout for patients without reprint permission from ADA Publishing. Any other use, copying, or distribution of this material, whether in printed or electronic form, including the copying and posting of this material on a website, is prohibited without prior written consent of ADA Publishing.

“For the Patient” provides general information on dental treatments. It is designed to prompt discussion between the dentist and patient about treatment options and does not substitute for the dentist’s professional assessment based on the individual patient’s needs and desires.

You can find more information for patients at ADAstore.org or at MouthHealthy.org.

Prepared by Anita M. Mark, senior scientific content specialist, ADA Science and Research Institute, Chicago, IL.

Disclosure. Ms. Mark did not report any disclosures

Copyright ª 2023 American Dental Association. Unlike other portions of JADA, the print and online versions of this page may be reproduced as a