Preventing Gum Disease in 4 Simple Steps

According to a study from the CDC, about half of adults in the United States have some form of gum disease. It is a condition that can lead to a variety of oral problems like bad breath, bleeding and swelling. The advanced stage of gum disease, called periodontitis, has also been linked to health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

4 Ways to prevent gum disease

As common as gum disease is, it can be easily prevented by establishing a good dental care routine. This should include brushing at least two times each day, using an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing once per day.

Avoiding habits like smoking or regular alcohol consumption can also help to prevent gum disease. Both habits dry out the mouth, creating conditions that are favorable for oral bacteria to thrive. Let us take a look at some of the things you can do to prevent gum disease in greater detail:

1. Oral hygiene

Oral hygiene goes a long way when it comes to keeping gum disease at bay. Gum disease is an infection of the gums and it typically occurs when plaque is left on tooth surfaces for extended periods. Some of the plaque makes it below the gum line and into gum pockets. The person's immune system deploys antibodies in response to the infection, leading to tenderness and inflammation.

Brushing at least two times a day does not only help to fight off infections. A 2018 study shows that people who brush at least two times daily for at least two minutes each session are about three times less likely to develop heart disease.

Dentists recommend using a toothpaste that contains fluoride to keep teeth enamel strong. Teeth should be cleaned using gentle, circular motions while keeping the brush at a 45-degree angle.

The two best times to brush teeth are early in the morning and right before bed. This gets rid of plaque that has built up overnight and prevents plaque from sitting on teeth during sleep. Flossing is just as important since it does the same thing brushing does for the tight spaces between teeth.

2. Switch to a new toothbrush every three months

Toothbrushes become less effective as their bristles begin to wear down with use. This limits how effective the toothbrush is at removing plaque from teeth surfaces. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months or whenever the bristles are noticeably worn down.

Toothbrushes accumulate bacteria with use and rinsing is not enough to get them off. The bacteria can end up facilitating gum disease if a person does not replace their toothbrush regularly.

3. Visit a dentist twice a year

Regular visits to a dentist give them an opportunity to detect gum disease in its early stages when it can still be reversed. It also provides a chance to perform treatments, like teeth cleaning, that can help to prevent gum disease.

Keep gum disease away

Contact our Palm Desert clinic to learn more about how you can lower your risk of gum disease.

Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Dentistry & Implants at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Preventive Care Options From A Family Dentist

Preventive dental care from your family dentist is a priority. After all, preventing infections and damage is easier than going through many dental treatments. Having this type of dentist will allow you to have the upper hand when it comes to your oral health. Here are the different preventive dental care options that you can…

How A Dental Cleaning Procedure Can Help With Bad Breath

Bad breath is a far more common issue than many people realize. Simply because someone does not notice their own bad breath does not mean it is not an issue. The good news is that bad breath is relatively easy to treat and prevent long-term in many cases. One of the best ways to treat…

Teeth Whitening 101: Your Guide To A Dazzling Smile

Teeth whitening has become a go-to cosmetic treatment for those looking to brighten their smile. With so many options available, it can be tough to choose the best one. Over-the-counter options can be convenient, but they have their drawbacks. Thankfully, professional teeth whitening treatments offered by dentists provide a safe, effective, and personalized way to…

The Benefits Of Consulting A Family Dentist For All Age Groups

A family dentist is unique in that they treat all age groups. This ensures that you and your family members can go to the same dentist for all your oral care needs, which makes life easy and saves you time and money. In this review, we discuss the benefits of consulting with a family dentist…

Total Care Dentistry & Implants

Share
Published by
Total Care Dentistry & Implants

Recent Posts

Preventive Care Options from a Family Dentist

Preventive dental care from your family dentist is a priority. After all, preventing infections and…

2 days ago

How a Dental Cleaning Procedure Can Help With Bad Breath

Bad breath is a far more common issue than many people realize. Simply because someone…

3 days ago

Teeth Whitening 101: Your Guide to a Dazzling Smile

Teeth whitening has become a go-to cosmetic treatment for those looking to brighten their smile.

1 week ago

The Benefits of Consulting a Family Dentist for All Age Groups

A family dentist is unique in that they treat all age groups. This ensures that…

1 week ago

Common Procedures from a Family Dentist

You can get specific procedures from your family dentist. This dental care provider knows your…

2 weeks ago

What Are the Benefits of Visiting a Family Dentist?

Your family dentist can provide many good things to your dental health. Improving your dental…

3 weeks ago