preventing periodontal diseasePeriodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and infection. Without daily brushing and flossing, bacteria left over from eating begins to stick on and in between your teeth and gums, leading to periodontal disease.

Preventing periodontal disease is actually quite easy. By implementing basic oral care (i.e. brushing, flossing, and using mouth wash), one can quickly deter the unpleasant side effects of gum disease.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Brush twice daily: One of the most basic ways to prevent gum disease is to brush your teeth. You hear your dentist or dental hygienist say it at every visit, and it’s true! Brushing twice daily helps eliminate plaque buildup on your mouth and gums.

Floss: Along with brushing, flossing is an easy way to help keep your mouth free of bacteria. Flossing helps to reach places that brushing cannot, by cleaning out the small cracks between teeth where a lot of bacteria and plaque can be found. Without flossing, your gums are much more prone to becoming infected.

Use mouthwash: Mouthwash is the best way to ensure that all bacteria and food particles have exited your mouth. After brushing and flossing, using mouthwash will help eliminate any remaining potential for plaque build up.

Avoid smoking: Smoking is not only one of the leading causes of heart and lung disease, but it is also terrible for your teeth and gums. Smoking stains your teeth and quickly infects your gums.

Do you have periodontal disease? Common signs for gum disease include red, puffy gums and gums that bleed easily, especially during or after flossing and brushing. Other signs are teeth separating from the gums and teeth feeling different or oddly positioned while eating.

For more information on preventing periodontal disease and how to treat it, contact us today!