When you do a good job preventing gum disease, you protect yourself against a condition that can negatively affect your general health and raise your risk for tooth loss. Your daily routine can – and should – be effective at fighting the buildup of oral bacteria capable of causing gingivitis. One thing to do in order to avoid this infection is floss, as those bacteria can consistently build up between your teeth. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office can provide you with tips on better brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease. We also provide care during regular dental exams that will help you preserve your dental and periodontal health.
Are You Fully Cleaning Your Smile Each Day?
How thorough is your smile care routine? You should practice both brushing and flossing on a daily basis in order to effectively fight the accumulation of plaque and food debris building up on your teeth. If you do not floss consistently and thoroughly, harmful microbes that gather between teeth can begin moving below your gum line and cause gingivitis. Flossing will help you prevent this, and it will help you fight the accumulation of bacteria that are already starting to create issues for you. Remember that this routine also helps you prevent the buildup of agents that can cause cavities, so your routine will also make you less likely to need dental fillings and dental crowns in the future.
Tips For Effective Flossing
Make sure you floss effectively by working the string vertically between your teeth. The vertical motion matters because it ensures that you fully clear these spaces out. Work the string at the base of your teeth to fight any accumulation of microbes at your gum line. Remember that flossing is meant to be a daily habit and not just something you do to remove food that is uncomfortably wedged between teeth. If you are not consistent with this practice, you leave yourself vulnerable to the accumulation of tartar, which will not budge until removed during your next professional teeth cleaning.
Gum Disease Can Be More Consequential Than You Realize
Over time, an infection affecting your gums can worsen. If this occurs, you will face potentially long-term consequences from a condition known as periodontitis. If this happens, you may need to seek treatment from a specialist to avoid consequences. Advanced gum disease can make your general health harder to manage, and it can leave you more vulnerable to tooth loss as bacteria attack the tissues supporting your teeth.
Your Ankeny, IA Dentist Can Help You Preserve Your Periodontal Health
Your Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is ready to help you fight to preserve your periodontal and dental health! For more information on our practice and services, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.
