Millions of people in the United States suffer from gum disease. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, half of adults over the age of 30 experience some form of the disease. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to potentially avoid the disease and help improve your overall oral hygiene. We have a number of tips for gum disease prevention.
Tips for Gum Disease Prevention
- Floss: Did you know flossing is one of the best ways to help prevent the onset of gum disease? When you floss, you remove the bits of food that a toothbrush can’t reach. These bits of food are broken down by bacteria, leading to plaque build that inflames the gums and increases the likelihood of developing he disease. You should floss once a day before going to bed.
- Brush Correctly: Brushing your teeth is still every important as this also controls plaque buildup and reduces the risk of gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis. You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes per session. Always use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen teeth. Also, we suggest using a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging the teeth should you brush too hard.
- Drink more water: When you drink water, you hydrate your body and help cleanse the mouth. Sodas and other drinks contain sugars that can promote plaque buildup and eventually, inflammation. In addition, these drinks can also stain the teeth.
- Have your teeth cleaned: About once every six months you should see the dentist for a thorough dental cleaning. While brushing and flossing can limit plaque buildup, only a cleaning can completely remove plaque and tartar (calcified plaque) from your teeth.
- Stop smoking: Using tobacco products can exacerbate the effects of gum disease, making the onset of periodontitis (advanced periodontal disease) more likely and increasing the risk of adult tooth loss.
