Tips For Preventing Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a condition where the gum line becomes inflamed and infected. If periodontal disease is not properly treated, a person can be at risk for losing teeth or bone mass in the jaw. Most people understand a lot about taking care of their teeth, but they do not pay as much attention to keeping gums healthy in order to prevent periodontal disease. Use the following tips to help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease:

Brush Teeth Correctly

When you brush your teeth, don't just focus on the surface of your teeth. It is also very important to carefully brush along your gum line to remove plaque and debris. It is a good idea to use a toothbrush with medium bristles-- these bristles are strong enough to clean the teeth and gum line but they won't damage the gums. Take your time when brushing your teeth and make sure that you thoroughly clean each tooth as well as the surrounding gums.

Don't Forget to Floss

Flossing is not just important for keeping teeth healthy, it is also essential for keeping your gums in good condition and free of disease. Flossing helps remove plaque and debris from in between the teeth, especially down near the gum line. While brushing your teeth can do a lot, most toothbrushes are not able to properly clean in between the teeth, which is why flossing is such a big factor in reducing the threat of periodontal disease.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is a big contributing factor to gum disease. Smoking can reduce your circulation, which means that your gums will not get the blood flow to keep them healthy. In addition, smoking can cause tar to build up on teeth and along the gum line, which can eventually cause periodontal disease to develop.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Consuming a healthy diet consisting of whole foods is a simple way to help prevent periodontal disease. Eating foods that provide a variety of vitamins and minerals can help keep both your teeth and gums in good condition. It is in your best interest to limit the amount of sugar that you eat since the bacteria that causes gum disease feeds on sugar.

Schedule Regular Check Ups

As an adult, it is extremely important to schedule regular appointments with your dentist. He or she will know the signs of periodontal disease and can refer you to a periodontist. A periodontist is a type of dentist who has extra training in regard to periodontal disease, and he or she can develop a treatment plan to help heal your gums and prevent the infection from developing further. 

Contact a dentist that specializes in periodontal care for more information and assistance. 


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