Living Well with Diabetes

November is American Diabetes Month®

Maybe you or someone you know is among the 24 million Americans living with diabetes. Robert M., a Colgate® friend, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes fifteen years ago. Now, sixty-five and retired, Robert remembers that his first thoughts were "complete shock and devastation."

Robert improved his outlook by making positive lifestyle changes and learning as much he could about the condition. "I had to watch my intake of pie and candy, which I love," Robert said recently from his home in New York. "I exercised more and watched my diet. I stopped smoking and switched to diet soda."

Robert discovered that diabetes can affect oral health. With diabetes, the body is less able to fight off infection, including gum infections. People with diabetes are actually twice as likely to develop serious gum disease. "I definitely floss more," Robert told us. "I also make sure to brush my teeth two to three times a day."

Robert has simple advice for anyone who is newly-diagnosed: "Don't panic. It's not the end of the world. Lose weight and watch what you eat. Remember to take your medication. Find a doctor who specializes in the treatment of diabetes. Stay positive and enjoy life."

12 Hour Germ Fighting

Colgate Total® helps fight the germs that cause serious gum disease.
Visit the all-new Colgate Total® website

Save $1 now!

*Colgate Total® is approved for the prevention of gingivitis. Not approved for the prevention or treatment of serious gum disease. Ask your dental or medical professional about the association between diabetes and serious gum disease.

Working Together to Stop Diabetes:
Colgate® and

American Diabetes Association

Learn more at stopdiabetes.com

"Oral Care and Diabetes" Video

Video:  Oral Care and Diabetes

When you have diabetes, good oral care becomes more important than ever. Learn why and what you can do to protect your smile.
Watch video.

Learn to avoid oral complications from diabetes. Visit our Oral Care Center.

Test your knowledge of diabetes and oral health. Take this quiz.

How has diabetes affected the oral health of you or a loved one? Tell us.

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