When it comes to your oral health, periodontal disease is one of the biggest threats you’ll face. From its earliest stages, it can be hard to recognize the signs, and can threaten the health of your gums, teeth, or even the bones that support your teeth. The good news is that there are a variety of small steps that you can take every day to greatly reduce your risk for gum disease.
At Quality Dental Care, we’re proud to offer both educational services and a variety of quality dental services to those around Omaha. With our experienced doctors and knowledgeable team, you’re in good hands when it comes to preventing gum disease. Call our Omaha office today if you’re in need of a checkup or professional cleaning! Otherwise, keep reading to see our tips on how to avoid periodontal disease.
Periodontal Disease Explained
Periodontal disease affects nearly half of American adults. From its earliest stage as gingivitis, gum disease can lead to inflamed, irritated gums, and some gum recession. As gum disease progresses into full-blown periodontitis, you run the risk of losing teeth, and even some of the bone mass that supports the teeth. Fortunately, the symptoms of periodontal disease are usually reversible, especially when caught at an early point.
How to Avoid Periodontal Disease
The best way to fight periodontal disease is prevention. That means sound daily hygiene practices. But nonetheless, we want to spend some time highlighting some of the specific steps you should take to avoid gum disease:
- Know your risk: Some people are at a greater risk for periodontal disease due to genetic factors. It’s important to talk with your dentist and find out what your risk is. If you’re at a higher risk for gum disease, you might need to ramp up your hygiene routine to beat periodontal disease.
- Floss daily: While brushing twice per day is essential, your toothbrush won’t target all those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth. Flossing can help clear out plaque, tartar, and bacteria from between your teeth.
- Regular checkups and professional cleanings: No matter how thorough your daily hygiene practices, you still need to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist might notice signs of gum disease that are hard to see on your own.
- Daily rinses with mouthwash: Brushing and flossing are great, but add in a mouthwash rinse to make sure you’re fighting off all the bacteria that lives on your gums and tongue.
Join Us at Quality Dental Care!
Are you due for a checkup or professional cleaning? Contact us today! You can call us at 402.431.8844 to schedule a consultation. You can also contact us here!