Diabetes is a common problem around the world that has people checking their blood sugar all the time. What's frightening to know is that diabetes is predicted to affect over 380 million people around the world by 2025. And with World Diabetes Day just celebrated this November 14, what could be a better way to deal with the illness than simply brushing one's teeth?

But brushing the teeth sounds all too far from controlling diabetes. What most people don't know is that for those who have diabetes, having excellent oral health is important. According to Colgate's Scientific Affairs Manager, Dr. Susan Cartwright, people with diabetes are more susceptible to chronic infections like gum disease: gingivitis, which is an early stage of the gum disease, and periodontitis, a more serious case of the disease.

Signs of serious gum disease include:

1. Gums that bleed easily

2. Red, swollen or tender gums

3. Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

4. Persistent bad breath or bad taste

5. Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

Diabetes sufferers are more prone to these types of chronic infection because they are generally more susceptible to bacterial infection, and that they have a decreased ability to fight bacteria that may invade the gums.

That is why brushing teeth twice a day and using a toothpaste with antibacterial properties, like Colgate Total toothpaste which reduces up to 90% of plaque germs is key to help minimize the progression of gum disease.

Aside from the very basic but important step of brushing one's teeth, people with diabetes should always make it their priority to control their blood glucose level. In addition, regular check-up with the doctor every six month is encouraged.

Other things that should be remembered are to avoid smoking, and to remove and clean dentures daily so as to avoid thrush, a fungal infection. Of course, it also helps to have a healthy diet, and to take insulin or oral medications to successfully manage oral complications of diabetes.