Diabetes mellitus is reaching potentially epidemic proportions in India. The level of morbidity and mortality due to diabetes and its potential complications are enormous, and pose significant healthcare burdens on both families and society. Worryingly, diabetes is now being shown to be associated with a spectrum of complications and to be occurring at a relatively younger age within the country. This article explores the associations between oral health and diabetes in the hope of providing the oral physician with the knowledge to support the diabetic patient with the best possible dental care and advice. It is necessary to be aware of the various oral manifestations of diabetes in order to make an early diagnosis and to provide best oral health care to the affected population.