Often periodontal disease, or gum disease as it is commonly known, can lead to gum recession, bone and tissue loss, an altered smile, bad breath, and can often be a precursor to serious health conditions like heart disease. Fortunately, gum disease is not only preventable, but prevention is simple.
Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup. Within the plaque, bacteria develops between your gums and teeth, which can inflame portions of your gums. Inflamed gums, when left untreated, can result in permanent tooth loss, among other things.
Periodontal disease prevention is about taking the steps necessary to keep plaque, bacteria, and gum disease far away.
You won’t get periodontal disease in the blink of an eye. It progresses over time, and an excellent oral care routine goes a long way when it comes to periodontal disease prevention. A good oral care plan will include the following to keep teeth clean and gums healthy.
Consuming too many carbohydrates and sugar-laden foods increases plaque production in your mouth – the cause of periodontal disease. Poor nutrition can adversely affect your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infections.
A diet that aids in periodontal disease prevention will include vitamins, minerals, raw vegetables, and fruit.
The excess force of grinding, clenching, or gritting your teeth can speed up the deterioration of gum tissue and bones that support your teeth. Dentists can create custom guards that reduce pressure on your teeth, its supporting structures, and joints.
Dental sealants are another way to guard your teeth. Sealants are applied to the back teeth, protecting them from decay, which usually starts in the hardest to clean areas.
Saliva is one of your body’s greatest defenses against plaque. Every time you eat, saliva is produced to wash food particles and plaque away. It makes sense that staying hydrated will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Be sure to drink lots of water throughout the day, and keep in mind that alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, rather than hydrate, dehydrate the body.
At Dentist of Torrance, we recommend seeing your dentist every six months for the greatest periodontal prevention. Only a professional will be able to remove the tartar stuck in the tiniest crevices of your teeth, inspect your gums and teeth, and advise you on how to best maintain optimal oral health.
Periodontists offer comprehensive periodontal evaluations (CPE), which look at your plaque level, bite, teeth, gums, bone structure and other periodontal disease risk factors. This is the best way to identify gum disease symptoms early and take the proper oral care measures.
Factors like genetics, age, and stress all increase your periodontal disease risk. Talk to your local dental professional or a dentist at Dentist of Torrance about your higher risk and how to manage your prevention.
Periodontal disease impacts your body far beyond your mouth, which is why taking preventative measures to protect your oral health is one of the best things you can do.
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