9 Tips For Preventing Gum Disease

Unfortunately, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is very common. But completely preventable.

Here are some simple ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

If you keep your teeth and gums healthy, you will only need to visit the dentist for cleanings and checkups. Not major treatment.

1. Brush properly

Brush for two to three minutes, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline. Clean away the bits of food Don’t brush too hard, but be thorough. Scrubbing your gums aggressively can be painful and is a BIG don’t.

2. Floss daily

Flossing removes plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t like to floss? Try a floss holder, which makes it much easier to insert the floss between teeth. But get over your aversion to flossing, unless you want decay or gum disease.

3. Use a mouth rinse

Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, using a mouth rinse can prevent plaque accumulation and keep your enamel strong. Remember that fluoride mouth rinses are not the same as mouthwashes. Mouthwashes have alcohol and are designed to freshen your breath. (But they can exacerbate dry mouth which can cause other problems.)

4. Eat a healthy diet

Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque. A wholesome diet provides the nutrients needed (Vitamins A and C, in particular) to keep teeth and gums healthy.

5. Skip cigarettes and smokeless tobacco

Both of these habits may result in periodontitis (advanced gum disease) or oral cancer. While you’re at it, avoid E-cigs and vapors.

6. Check your meds

Be aware that certain medications can also threaten a healthy smile. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants and heart medicines. If your medications are affecting your dental health, communicate with Drs. Vitangeli.

7. Make preventative care a priority

Exercise preventive care and schedule regular evaluations — the ideal way to detect early signs of gum disease and make a plan to reverse it.

8. Talk to your dentist

Talk to your dentist about dental health topics such as old, broken fillings or crowded teeth.

9. Protect your teeth

If you grind your teeth, talk with Drs. Vitangeli about ways to safeguard your smile. If you participate in contact sports, use a custom mouthguard.

Listed above are nine simple ways to ensure your teeth don’t decay, or worse, fall out completely. It’s crucial to brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Bonus points for brushing and/or rinsing after lunch. Thorough, daily oral hygiene also keeps your breath fresh. Your friends, family, and co-workers will appreciate that!