If you have diabetes, you are at a higher risk for tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease , xerostomia (dry mouth), infection, delayed healing and other oral health problems. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place and is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Since diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, diabetic patients have more frequent and more severe periodontal disease. Uncontrolled periodontal disease can adversely impact your overall health. Periodontal disease has been linked by the Surgeon General to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis and pre-term and low birth-weight babies. Uncontrolled diabetes can cause high glucose levels in the saliva and may promote the growth of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugar and starches in your food and release an acid that causes tooth decay.