How to Be Better at Preventing Gum Disease

Caring for your smile is almost second nature to most people, but doing it effectively can take more skill and attention than people often realize. For example, when it comes to gum disease, which is one of the most common chronic oral health concerns, preventing its formation seems simple. Yet, nearly 70% of adults will develop it to some degree by the time they reach their 60’s, and for some, it can lead to devastating consequences for their oral health. Today, we take a look at how you can be better at preventing gum disease on a day-to-day basis by paying a little more attention in your preventive care routine.

Controlling the cause of it more effectively

The cause of gum disease is similar to the cause of tooth decay and other concerns; the excessive buildup of oral bacteria on your teeth and along your gum line. There are several hundred different identifiable types of oral bacteria, and specific types all behave differently. Some can specifically harm your gums, working their way underneath them and infecting the soft tissues. The best way to prevent the development of gum disease is to control this buildup and stop oral bacteria from growing numerous enough to infect your gum tissues. This takes brushing your teeth at least twice and flossing at least once every day, while taking special care to clean along your gum line.

Being more diligent about the warning signs

Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, can often develop before you realize it. If you continue to not realize it, the condition can progress into more severe gum disease by the time you start to see or feel any symptoms. Progressive gum disease destroys the gum tissues and ligaments that support your teeth roots, making it one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. However, you may notice signs like red and inflamed gums long before the disease becomes so severe. When you brush and floss your teeth every day, take note of the appearance of your teeth and gums so you’ll be more likely to notice if anything changes.

Avoiding things that could increase your risks

While harmful oral bacteria re the main cause of gum disease, there are many different risk factors that can make its development more likely for some patients than for others. For example, not keeping up with your daily hygiene routine on a consistent basis can allow oral bacteria to accumulate more rapidly. Also, habits such as chewing or smoking tobacco products can almost guarantee that you’ll be faced with gum disease at some point in the future.

Learn more about preventing gum disease better

Preventing gum disease can take a little more diligence than you might be used to. However, given the consequences of gum disease development, preventing it is well worth the effort. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Peddicord Family Dentistry in Ankeny, IA, today at (515) 963-3339. We also proudly serve patients of all ages who live in Bondurant, Polk City, Elkhart, Alleman, Cambridge, and all surrounding communities.