Want to keep your teeth and gums healthy and have them last for a lifetime? One of the best ways to do that is through proactive periodontal (gum) disease prevention. Regularly brushing and flossing is just the start. At Downey Dental Arts, we can help you and your family nip periodontal disease in the bud!
Periodontal or gum disease is a potentially serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. The best way to deal with periodontal disease is early on via preventative measures. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that infect the gums and feed off of plaque and tartar buildup. The bacterial infection causes inflammation of the gums and erosion of the teeth.
Infected gums become red, inflamed, and sometimes swollen. They then start to recede and pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. These pockets can be measured, and this is how we determine the level of periodontal or gum disease. A reading of 3 mm or more indicates full-blown periodontal disease. If the periodontal pockets become too big and the gum pulls away too much, it could affect the stability of the teeth.
Periodontal disease negatively impacts teeth. At the latest stages of gum disease, teeth can completely fall out because they no longer have healthy gums and bone to support them. Additionally, the same bacteria infecting the gums can also erode tooth enamel, weakening the teeth and making them more prone to tooth decay.
By far, the number one thing you and your family can do to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss regularly. It is important to brush properly using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure to reach into every nook and cranny in your mouth.
Using a hard toothbrush and/or overbrushing (brushing with too much pressure) could actually do more harm than good. When in doubt, talk to your friendly dental hygienist at Downey Dental Arts, and they will show you proper brushing and flossing techniques.
A water pick can also be a helpful tool for people who don’t like flossing so much, although we still think you should floss regularly as well.
What you eat can make a huge difference in the health of your teeth and gums. If you eat a ton of sugary sweets, snacks, candy, junk food, and soft drinks, you are basically feeding the bacteria in your mouth. These poor diets also can weaken the immune system, making you more prone to infection. Being nutrient-deficient can also make you more prone to gum disease. Conversely, vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you know the difference between a healthy and unhealthy diet, then you already have a good idea of what you should eat to help prevent gum disease. Here are some basics:
Sugary sodas and soft drinks are particularly bad for the teeth and the gums. These drinks can be acidic, and since they usually contain a large amount of sugar, they are basically food for bacteria in the mouth. Diet soft drinks may be preferable to sugary ones but still aren’t the healthiest option. Ideally, you should drink water more often than not. Water is your best option for drinking, and it’s low-cost too.
If you start early enough, periodontal disease prevention is quite affordable. It is simply the cost of a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and antibacterial mouthwash. You should also see your friendly dentist at Downey Dental Arts in Southern California for regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings.
Periodontal teeth cleanings, which are a bit more in-depth than a regular teeth cleaning, may be recommended for people with signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease. These cleanings can range in cost approximately $75 to $150. Contact us to get more information about periodontal (gum) disease prevention treatment options.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease Prevention in Downey
One of the ways you can prevent gum disease is by getting regular teeth cleanings and checkups. Contact us today by calling (562) 445-3363 to schedule your appointment at Downey Dental Arts.
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