Gum disease is incredibly common. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, nearly half of all individuals in the United States have suffered from the condition at some point. While our team at Metropolitan Dental Care is well-equipped to treat gum disease effectively, we prefer to prevent it altogether when possible. Even if you are genetically prone to the condition, following a few guidelines can help keep harmful bacteria at bay and offer a better quality of life. Today, our team will discuss several tips and tricks for preventing periodontal disease in Denver.
Attend All Routine Dental Visits
Professional dental care is absolutely essential for healthy teeth and gums, especially for those predisposed to periodontal disease. First, dental examinations allow your dentist to monitor your gum health and measure the pockets around the teeth. By doing so, he or she can determine if your periodontal health is stable. Secondly, routine dental cleanings can eradicate harmful microbes that lead to gum disease. While many patients only require cleanings every six months, those prone to periodontal disease typically need more frequent visits. In fact, it is common for periodontal patients to receive teeth cleanings every three to four months.
Practice Good Home Care
How you care for your teeth and gums between dental visits is just as important. In fact, all individuals should be brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, whether they have gum disease or not. Ask your hygienist for specific product recommendations. He or she can help you establish an effective oral care regimen to implement at home.
Brush Your Gums
In addition to brushing your teeth, brush your gums as well. Angle your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle into the gum line. This will effectively sweep away bacteria and debris that are hiding in hard-to-reach areas.
Consider Lifestyle Factors
Gum disease can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. In fact, the condition can also be triggered by life cycle changes, such as menses, pregnancy, and menopause. If you are practicing good oral hygiene and are still experiencing tender or swollen gums, stress hormones could be to blame. Consider taking a little extra time to relax and unwind!
Don’t Forget to Scrape Your Tongue
The tongue is like a sponge that harbors bacteria and toxins. In addition to brushing and flossing, we recommend cleaning your tongue as well. A tongue scraper can be purchased at your local pharmacy or grocery store, although you can also use a popsicle stick, tongue depressor, or your toothbrush. To eliminate bacteria effectively, simply scrape from the back of the tongue to the front approximately 10 to 15 times.
Check the Labels
When purchasing oral healthcare products, it is important to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. When you see this on the label, it means the product has been proven safe and effective through research and testing. In addition, you may want to check the packaging for cetylpridinium chloride or domiphen bromide, as clinical testing has shown that these ingredients are helpful for reducing dental plaque.
Learn More about Preventing Periodontal Disease in Denver
The simple guidelines mentioned above can help you prevent tender, red, swollen, bleeding gums. Our team at Metropolitan Dental Care serves the communities of Denver, Centennial, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. If you have questions about the prevention and treatment of gum disease, contact us online or call us at 303-534-2626.
