More than 34 million children and adults in the U.S. have diabetes. Of those, 7 million are unaware of their condition. To top it off, an estimated 88 million people have prediabetes, a condition that increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future.

Research has found a strong connection between periodontal (gum) disease and diabetes. People with diabetes are not only more likely to have gum disease, but can also have a more advanced stage of the condition than those without diabetes.

Regular dental visits are important, especially for people with diabetes. One in five cases of total tooth loss is linked to diabetes. In fact, people with diabetes are at a higher risk for gum problems because of poor blood sugar control.

To learn more about how to manage your oral health if you have diabetes, view tips from Michigan Medicine.