Gum Disease Prevention

Most people think about their teeth when they visit the dentist, but your gums matter, too. There are many conditions that can affect your gums, and one of the most common ones is periodontal disease. This oral health condition affects upwards of 40% of adults aged 30 or over in the United States. In its early stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis, and it can create numerous problems for anyone who has it. Distinctive Dental Solutions offers innovative treatments to solve your oral health issues and protect you from potential complications. We offer a few tips for lowering the risk of periodontal disease and discuss the importance of visiting a dentist regularly. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

We’ve all been told to brush our teeth twice and floss once a day. Oral hygiene is paramount to maintaining healthy gums since brushing removes bacteria that can eventually cause gum disease. Use proper brushing techniques and rinse your mouth after eating meals. Don’t skip flossing: daily flossing is key to stimulating gums and removing debris trapped between teeth. By building good oral hygiene habits, you can lower the long-term risk of gum disease and its associated complications. If you aren’t sure where to start, our dentists provide the advice you need. 

Pay Attention to What You Eat

Your diet has a profound effect on your oral health. What you eat impacts how healthy your gums and teeth are. You need to eat enough vitamins and minerals on top of avoiding sugary drinks and foods. Gum health relies on vitamin C, which is found in fruits and vegetables. 

Avoid or Stop Using Tobacco

Smoking increases your risk for many oral health issues, including cancer. Gum disease is another possibility since smoking and chewing tobacco stresses your gums and increases tartar. Quitting tobacco can prevent or even reverse gum disease if you already have the signs. 

Manage Your Stress

You may not realize how closely stress and oral health are connected. Stress can suppress the immune system, which can allow unhealthy bacteria to grow and raise the risk of periodontal disease. When you’re stressed, your muscles tense up, including those in the jaw. Teeth clenching is common in people with anxiety and chronic stress, and its effects are well documented. Bruxism and teeth grinding can lead to damage and pain. Fortunately, a dentist can provide a custom mouth guard to prevent teeth from grinding at night. 

Regularly Visit a Dentist

Regular dental visits are key to preventing gum disease. Many times, the signs and symptoms don’t become significant until later stages, when mild gingivitis worsens. We can examine your gums and identify symptoms while the disease is in its earliest stages. We can also treat any inflammation you already have to support your long-term oral health.

Distinctive Dental Solutions is fully committed to you and your family, and we want to provide the best services possible. You’ll be impressed by the quality of care we deliver. Contact our office today to schedule a checkup with our dentists.