10 Essential Tips for Gum Disease Prevention

Periodontal disease, frequently referred to as gum disease, affects almost half of all adults in the United States over the age of 30 and millions of individuals all around the world. The first sign you might experience is red, swollen gums that may bleed, especially during brushing. Left untreated, periodontal disease can cause gum recession or tooth loss, and further progression may result in bacteria entering the bloodstream, which can lead to health problems that affect other areas of the body.

Prevention of periodontal disease is key, so our periodontist at North Point Periodontics will work with you to develop a treatment plan in Alpharetta. Additionally, keeping up on your oral health care routine and making some lifestyle changes are vital in maintaining good gum health. You can get started by following these 10 tips to reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

1. Brush and floss regularly

In the same way that bacteria leads to tooth decay, it can cause gum disease as well. Using a toothbrush with soft bristles, brush your teeth and along your gum line at least twice each day. Floss in between teeth and along the gums to remove plaque and bacteria that could lead to gum disease.

2. Use an antibacterial mouthwash

No matter how diligently you brush and floss, there are some areas that can be hard to reach. This is where a good mouthwash can help. Choose an antiseptic mouthwash, such as one that contains chlorhexidine or essential oils that have antibacterial properties. An antimicrobial mouthwash can help to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth that can lead to gum disease.

3. Keep regular visits with your periodontist in Alpharetta

It’s recommended that you see your periodontist at North Point Periodontics twice a year or as directed by your oral health care provider. Because periodontists are experts when it comes to gum health, they can detect gum disease in its early stages to prevent more serious problems from developing.

4. Quit smoking

You probably know that smoking is bad for your overall health in Alpharetta, but this habit can also increase your risk for developing gum disease by reducing blood flow to the gums and lowering your body’s ability to fight inflammation and infection. By quitting smoking, you can significantly lower your risk for gum disease.

5. Eat a balanced diet

You’re probably thinking that nearly every list of health advice includes eating a balanced diet. This is because the foods you consume can provide vital nutrients for the health of all of your body’s systems. Nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains provide nutrients that are necessary for good gum health. Be sure to reduce your intake of sugary foods and beverages as these increase the amount of harmful plaque-causing bacteria in your mouth.

6. Limit alcohol consumption

Consuming too much alcohol not only weakens the immune system, but it also increases the damaging bacteria in the mouth that can lead to inflammation and gum disease. By reducing your alcohol intake, you can lower your risk for periodontal disease.

7. Manage stress

It’s a known fact that chronic stress can wreak havoc on the body by increasing inflammation and reducing your body’s ability to heal itself. Do your gums and your whole body good by engaging in stress management through meditation, exercise or enjoyable activities or hobbies.

8. Avoid grinding your teeth

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can seriously damage your teeth and gums. When you grind your teeth, it puts excessive pressure on the supportive tissues that hold your teeth in place, which can cause gums to recede and lead to gum disease. If you do grind your teeth, wearing a night guard can help to reduce the wear and tear on your teeth and gums.

9. Stay hydrated

Drinking water helps to flush some of the plaque-forming bacteria away from your teeth and gums. Staying hydrated also increases the production of saliva, your body’s natural defense to neutralize and remove these harmful bacteria.

10. Know the side effects of your medications

If you are taking medications, such as antidepressants or antihistamines, you could experience dry mouth, which can increase your risk of gum disease. Talk with your dental care provider for solutions if dry mouth is a problem for you.

Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and healthy lifestyle choices can help to reduce your risk of gum disease in Alpharetta. Prevention and early detection can help in keeping your smile for life. Call today or visit our website to schedule an appointment with our periodontist at North Point Periodontics for a personalized treatment and prevention plan.