Periodontal Disease Prevention Tips

shutterstock_272306351Periodontal disease can be complicated, expensive, and time-consuming. Some simple tips can help you avoid gum disease.
Prevention Tips: How To Avoid The Causes Of Gum Disease

You can greatly reduce your risk of periodontal disease by keeping your mouth clean. You will be less likely to develop the condition when bacteria and food particles are not allowed to linger on your gums.

Brush your teeth every time you eat. Do not skip your tongue or the roof of your mouth.

Use dental floss regularly. When you floss properly, it removes residue that cannot be reached by your toothbrush.

Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing. Every trace of residue will be removed when you use mouthwash correctly.
Prevention Tips: Visit Your Dentist

Routine cleanings can reduce your risk of gum disease, but information you receive from your dentist can be helpful, too. One example is learning whether you have any special risk factors for periodontal disease. Your diet, smoking, and age may be risk factors. Genetics can be a factor, too. If you have a family history of periodontal disease, your own risk can be higher.

Schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation each year. You will have a thorough examination, and your dental professional can detect early signs of periodontal disease. If you have not developed the condition, your dentist can offer more advice on how to prevent it.
If periodontal disease occurs and is not treated, it can lead to tooth loss. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, see your dentist immediately for an evaluation. Your gums may be swollen, or bleed easily. One or more teeth may be loose. You may have persistent bad breath even if you brush and floss every day.

If you do not have these symptoms, start with prevention tips. You can greatly reduce your risk of periodontal disease.