NEW YORK — During the month of November – American Diabetes Month — the American Diabetes Association is conducting a new “Everyday Reality” campaign to bring greater awareness to these daily challenges and build support for those living with the disease. Colgate Total, a long-standing partner of the American Diabetes Association, is sponsoring this new campaign to also draw attention to the important connection between diabetes and gum disease.

The everyday reality of living with diabetes in the Latinx community is being brought to life by Colgate Total spokesperson, TV personality and mother of two, Karla Martinez, who is helping spread the word about the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums through a series of tips on digital and social media on @KarlaMartinezTV.

Oral healthcare is a critical part of everyday life for Latinx with diabetes and prediabetes to avoid complications. Latinx experience higher rates of overall oral health issues such as cavities and bleeding gums than the non-Hispanic white population¹, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with diabetes are two times more likely to develop gum disease.² Gum disease can begin with the more common swelling and bleeding of the gums – the telltale signs of gingivitis.

While living with diabetes often means changes in almost every routine which adds to the everyday struggle, when it comes to oral care a simple switch can have meaningful benefits. According to dental experts, active oral care routines, such as brushing with an anti-gingivitis toothpaste, are among the best ways to protect against the development of gum disease. The unique formula of Colgate Total® toothpaste is unsurpassed in its ability to prevent and reverse gingivitis, making it a helpful ally for those at greater risk for gum disease, such as people with diabetes.

A combination of various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, lack of disease awareness, and health insurance disparities contribute to the higher rates of diabetes and oral care disparities among Latinx. The “Everyday Reality” campaign aims to shine a light on the challenges that people with diabetes face daily, from the moment they wake up and brush their teeth.

“The prevalence of diabetes is higher in the Latino community than the overall U.S. population,” says Karla Martinez. “Through leading by example with my family, I am committed to raising awareness for healthy lifestyles throughout my community. One easy step I take is keeping my mouth healthy. That’s why I use and recommend Colgate Total. It can prevent or reverse gingivitis and protect my teeth from cavaties.”

For more information about the “Everyday Reality” of living with diabetes, and to learn how you can help raise awareness and support the diabetes community, visit diabetes.org/everydayreality or www.SaludOralyDiabetes.com. And follow the #EverydayReality conversation on @Colgate, @AmDiabetesAssn and @KarlaMartinezTV.