5 Essential Strategies to Prevent Gum Disease Before It Strikes

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. This infection of the gums is one of the more serious dental issues someone may have to contend with. However, you can prevent gum disease from taking you by surprise, and here are a few ways to do it.

Understanding and Managing Gum Disease

Numerous online resources provide information about gum disease and its symptoms. It is easy to think you are protecting yourself from this infection if you are practicing good oral hygiene, but gum disease, or periodontal disease, can occur for several reasons.

That’s why it is essential to know at least a little about the signs of gum disease. Stay alert for red, swollen, bleeding, or painful gums. These represent indicators of encroaching periodontitis. Additionally, you should ask your dentist about gum disease and options for gum disease treatment in Phoenix.

Essential Oral Care Practices: Brushing, Flossing, and Beyond

Brush at least twice daily and floss once. Plaque forms when bacteria feed off sugars from leftover food in your mouth. So, brushing and flossing remain essential methods for gum disease prevention.

Additionally, you can use a tongue scraper to get bacteria off the tongue. Also, you can use an antimicrobial mouthwash. Note that mouthwashes aren’t all the same, so it is a good idea to ask your dentist about which will work best for you and when and how to use the mouthwash as part of your oral care routine.

Maintain Your Oral Health: The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

One of the best defenses against gum disease is your dentist. Make sure you keep to your checkup and cleaning schedule. If you don’t have a regular dentist, now is a good time to schedule an appointment and start regular dental visits.

The dentist can prevent the progression of gum disease if it’s already started and even reverse periodontal disease in some cases. For most people, Drs. Anthony Quihuis and Vanessa Quihuis at Shine Dental Arts in Phoenix, Arizona, recommend a visit every six months for a routine examination and cleaning.

The Impact of Smoking and Alcohol on Oral Health

Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and hampers your gum’s ability to heal. This also applies to tobacco products in general. Alcohol also creates risks as it dries out your mouth, decreases saliva production, and hinders the ability of your mouth’s natural mechanisms to clear out bacteria from your teeth and gums.

Act Promptly on Oral Health Issues: The Importance of Seeking Dental Care

Don’t let any oral problems linger. If something does not feel or look right, contact your dentist. Also, do not assume it’s too late to have your dental issue looked at. No dental issue is so far gone that seeing a dentist isn’t an option.

Gum disease requires immediate gum disease treatment. Prevention works best, but even if you are deep into the periodontal disease process, you should certainly contact a local dental service to help you figure out your next step.

Protect Your Smile: Schedule Your Appointment with Shine Dental Arts Today!

If you want to learn more about gum disease, how to prevent it, how to reverse it, or any other dental concerns, contact Shine Dental Arts in Phoenix at (480) 893-3072 to schedule an appointment today.

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