Maintaining great oral health is a priority for all, but it’s important to remember that healthy gums are just as essential as healthy teeth. Unfortunately, inflammation and related issues can quickly lead to major issues for teeth as well as the jawbone. Periodontal disease is one of the main culprits, which is why preventing it should be high on your agenda.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a term related to the infection of gum tissues. Gingivitis is a less severe and common precursor, but can progress to periodontal disease when the inflammation reaches the gum tissue that supports teeth. Common symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling
- Bleeding while brushing
- Receding gum tissue
- Sensitive gum tissue
- Persistent bad breath
If you notice any of the above symptoms, seeking professional support ASAP is vital. While a range of treatments are available ranging from professional cleaning to surgery and regenerative processes, prevention is always the best form of protection.
How To Prevent Periodontal Disease
The good news is that preventing periodontal disease largely relies on adopting habits that will improve your general oral health. In truth, it’s as easy as mastering three simple steps.
Step 1: Daily Hygiene
Oral hygiene is a daily challenge. Protecting your teeth with brushing, flossing, and mouthwash will give you a solid foundation. This should be supported further by making smarter choices regarding the foods and drinks consumed. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the sugary treats you love, but moderation is the key. It’ll aid your general health as well as your oral health.
Brushing and flossing twice per day is essential, but don’t forget to brush after sugary and sticky sweets, as well. Just following this simple routine helps reduce the threat of periodontal disease – along with various related issues.
Step 2: Professional Cleaning
Visiting your dentist on a regular basis is a crucial stage of preventive care for your smile and general oral health. However, it achieves far more than protecting the teeth and gaining a whiter smile. The professional clean will remove plaque and tartar that your toothbrush cannot, which can reduce the threat of infections and inflammation.
While most people will find that an interval of six month visits is fine, those that have experienced other dental issues may wish to increase this to four times per year.
Step 3: Stop Smoking / Chewing Tobacco
While a variety of ingredients are known to cause problems for the gums, tobacco is one of the worst. It can lead to inflammation and weakening of the gums. When combined with the impact on your breath and teeth, the benefits of quitting cigarettes is clearly evident. Besides, taking this healthy step is sure to improve other aspects of your life in the process.
Do these three things to prevent periodontal disease, and it should help you avoid the serious problems that may surface.
Still Want More Info On Preventing Periodontal Disease?
To learn more about preventing periodontal disease or other questions about general oral health give Hanson Dental a call at 763-682-9796 today.
Image credit: Tharakorn / iStock / Getty Images Plus