Tips for Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease, which is also referred to as periodontal disease, is the medical term used for a bacterial infection that causes the gingival tissue (gums) surrounding the teeth to swell. If left untreated, gum disease can quickly become more severe and start to deteriorate the gingival tissue and bone structure, eventually causing the teeth to fall out. Fortunately, gum disease is preventable. Use the tips below to ensure your gums remain healthy.

5 Tips to Help Prevent Gum Disease

1. Brush Daily

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth twice a day. Be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Each brushing session should last for two minutes.

2. Remember to Floss

Flossing at least once a day is vital to maintaining healthy gums because dental floss can reach places between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot.

3. Biannual Cleanings and Checkups are Vital

Visiting the dentist regularly for a checkup and to have your teeth professionally cleaned is essential to maintaining healthy gums. Dental hygienists use special tools to remove the tartar (calculus) that accumulates on the teeth.

In addition, if gum disease is present, the dentist can take preventative measures to ensure the disease does not continue to progress.

4. Know the Factors that Increase Your Risk of Developing Gum Disease

Various factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing gum disease. Some of these factors include: smoking, vaping, hormonal changes in females (typically during puberty and pregnancy), menopause, dry mouth, diabetes, pre-existing genetic factors as well as certain illnesses and their required care.

5. Eat Healthy

Eating healthy is key to preventing gum disease. Frequently consuming foods that contain large amounts of sugar or starch increases plaque formation. Eating a nutrient-rich diet will provide the supplements your teeth and gums need to stay healthy, thus, preventing gum disease.

Addressing Issues that Make Proper Dental Care Challenging

The experienced dentists at Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can correct any problem that makes caring for your teeth difficult.

Some of the most common problems that make caring for the teeth properly a challenge include:

• Overcrowded teeth.
• Defective fillings.
• Previous dental work that needs to be replaced or repaired.

If you need a dental exam and a cleaning, or you are interested in learning about the cosmetic treatments that are available, please contact Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today at (651) 731-1560 to schedule an appointment, or, if you prefer, you can use the online contact form by clicking here.

At Woodlane’s state-of-the-art dental office, patients receive exceptional care from dentists and hygienists who have experience performing the most innovative dental procedures and techniques available.

Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 2185 Woodlane Drive in Woodbury, Minnesota.