Periodontal disease affects many Canadians and is the leading cause of tooth loss. When you develop gum disease, the tissues that are supporting the tooth begin to break down, along with the bone. To stop the periodontal disease in its tracks, you need to take proper care of your mouth on a consistent basis. Here we will show you exactly what you need to do to prevent it from forming and how to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
Brush Properly
Most people don’t take the time to brush their teeth properly which dramatically increases their risk of periodontal disease. To help reduce your risk, make sure to clean twice a day for at least two minutes. This includes brushing at the gum line where gingivitis starts, which is a common precursor of periodontal disease. Using a 45-degree angle to your teeth, ensure that you gently reach under the gums while cleaning your teeth.
Use The Right Toothbrush
Did you know that you could actually cause more damage to your teeth and gums by using the wrong toothbrush? Dentists recommend using a soft bristled brush unless otherwise directed. Also, when storing the toothbrush, you should also keep it in an upright position to prevent bacteria and germs from growing on the brush.
Floss and Rinse
Brushing your teeth is only half the battle. You also need to routinely floss and rinse with mouthwash to rid your mouth of bacteria and food particles. To ensure you make it a nightly habit, store your floss and mouthwash beside your toothbrush to remind you to use them before bed.
Implement a Healthy Diet
What you eat is important for your oral health. Poor dietary habits can increase bone loss and speed up periodontal disease. You can help reverse these effects and strengthen your teeth by getting a healthy dose of calcium, and vitamin C, D, and E. Eating more dark green vegetables, healthy nuts, and fatty fish can boost your body’s natural defences and improve your oral health.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, but it can also drain your body of the vital minerals and nutrients that are necessary for a healthy mouth. Smoking also acts to progress periodontal disease and deter the healing process after surgery. So if you’re a smoker, now’s the time to kick the habit.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Your dentist will look at your teeth, gums, bone structure, and risk factors to determine if you are susceptible to gum disease. During your visit, they will also remove the plaque and tartar beneath the gum line. And if problems are found, they can perform non-invasive treatments like root planning to influence the gums to reattach to the teeth. Visiting your dentist regularly is the best way to identify any symptoms early and help stop the periodontal disease in its tracks.
If you experienced bleeding or swollen gums on a regular basis, it’s time to make an appointment with your dentist. At Dow’s Lake Dentistry, we take the appropriate actions to ensure that periodontal disease is prevented and that your teeth, gums, bones and connective tissue are properly maintained for optimal health. Contact us today to set up an appointment!
