Patients who suffer from diabetes are at particular risk of gum disease due to their irregular blood glucose control. It is also possible that periodontal disease may affect glucose control and expedite the progression of diabetes. Simultaneously, the high glucose content in diabetics’ bloodstream offers a perfect source of food for bacteria which live in plaque and tartar deposits at the gums. This further exacerbates the risk of heart disease in diabetics and other oral health problems such as thrush and xerostomia. The best way to prevent dental problems for diabetics is to keep their blood glucose levels under control, clean dentures regularly if they wear them, avoid smoking, and as always brush at least twice every day, floss daily, and schedule check-ups with a dentist at least twice per year.