​​​​​​How can diabetes affect my teeth and gums?

Diabetes can cause problems such as:

• gum disease
• dry mouth which can lead to tooth decay
• infections that make it harder to manage diabetes.

Teeth and gum problems you might see:

• red, swollen or bleeding gums
• loose teeth
• bad breath
• sensitive teeth
• change in taste
• white patches in your mouth.

What can I do to prevent teeth and gum problems?

• Brush your teeth 2 times a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth with dental floss or an interdental brush.
• Clean your dentures daily and take them out at night and leave dry.
• See a dentist at least once a year.
• Keep your blood sugar levels under control.
• After a hypoglycemic episode, avoid brushing your teeth immediately, instead, rinse your mouth with water.

What are my healthy choices?

• Choose water as your everyday drink.
• Eat regular meals, spreading them evenly throughout the day.
• Each day, aim to eat 2 serves of fruit, and add vegetables to 2 meals.
• Limit foods and drinks high in energy – sugary drinks, lollies, chocolate, muffins, cakes, chips.
• If you choose to drink alcohol, limit intake to no more than 2 standard drinks per day.
• Do not smoke - if you do, try and quit.  Call Quitline 137 848 for support.
• Adults should be physically active most days, preferably every day.

Everyone’s needs are different so please see your doctor, diabetes educator or dietitian for advice and ask about any Medicare benefits for this.

What do I need to discuss with my health care provider?

• Tell them about any teeth and gum problems.
• Inform them of any treatments a dentist has planned.

What do I need to discuss with my dentist?

• Inform them about your diabetes and how you manage the conditions.
• Tell them about any other health conditions.
• Tell them about any medicines you are taking.

Dental services in NSW

Public Dental Services are free for children under 18 years old with a Medicare card. Parents or guardians must sign a Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) Bulk Billing Patient Consent Form. If a child is not eligible for CDBS or has already used their benefit, care is still provided at no cost.

To access NSW Public Dental Services call 1800 679 336.

If you need an Interpreter Service call 13 14 50.

Some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations​​ (ACCHO) provide dental care for their community. Each ACCHO may have different eligibility criteria and appointment processes for their dental programs.

To find a private dentist​, visit the Australian Dental Association website​.