Gum disease is not something that anyone wants to deal with, however, it is often inevitable. This oral condition operates in a few different stages, ranging from mild to severe. In order to avoid entering the severe stages, it is important to take preventive measures. There are a few different ways that general dentists recommend fighting off gum disease. Ready to learn more about them?
Preventing gum disease
Outlined below are a few ways to prevent gum disease from developing. These recommendations come straight from a general dentist and should be taken seriously when trying to maintain good oral hygiene.
Practice good oral hygiene
One of the most common and simple ways to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. Oral hygiene is crucial when trying to prevent any oral condition from developing, however, it is especially vital in the prevention of gum disease. Oral hygiene consists of regularly brushing the teeth, flossing at least once a day and rinsing a few times a week.
Brushing the teeth and gum lines with a soft-bristled toothbrush will keep any buildup to a minimum. General dentists recommend doing this twice a day or after every meal. Flossing at least once a day will keep food out of the spaces in between the teeth, which will ultimately avoid excess buildups that could lead to gum disease. Lastly, rinsing with mouthwash or saltwater a few times a week can help clear out hard-to-reach areas that may contribute to gum disease.
Regularly visit the dentist
Visiting a general dentist on a regular basis will also help fight off gum disease. Dentists are able to detect warning signs that patients may not be able to notice. Additionally, they can take x-rays and perform cleanings that can help catch gum disease in its early stages.
General dentists recommend an exam at least twice a year or every 6 months for patients of all ages. Dental cleanings should also be done at least twice a year or every 6 months, however, they can be done more frequently if the patient desires or if the dentist recommends it. Sometimes, it is recommended to fight off oral conditions, such as gum disease or cavities.
Avoid excessive sugar consumption
It is hard to avoid eating sugar. It is practically in everything, however, it is possible to avoid excessive amounts. Sugar contains ingredients that break down the teeth and cause infections along the gum lines. It is best to avoid any consumption of large amounts. If it is necessary, general dentists recommend brushing immediately after to help prevent a bacterial buildup, which could lead to gum disease.
Reach out today!
When trying to prevent or fight against gum disease, it is good to consult with a general dentist. They are able to offer up additional recommendations that may be patient-specific. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with an appointment!
Request an appointment here: https://ashley1dental.com or call Ashley Family Dental at (713) 405-3499 for an appointment in our Houston office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Houston, TX.
Related Posts
When undergoing a dental appointment, patients can request an oral cancer screening to know if they are at risk of developing the condition. The screenings are meant to detect early signs of the condition before it reaches a more advanced stage.The 5-year survival rate is at about 50 percent, so it is highly vital to…
Thinking about getting an oral cancer sceening? Oral cancer screenings are a very important part of general dental care as they ensure the health of patient's oral cavity. They involve a few steps that are typically painless. Understanding the process of an oral cancer screening can be helpful for patients who are not sure what…
Wondering what the signs of oral cancer are? General dentists are specifically trained in performing oral cancer screenings and thus know exactly what to look for. Dental patients can also check for signs in between screenings.Learning how general dentists perform oral cancer screenings will help dental patients know what to expect when undergoing this important…
An oral cancer screening is usually part of a routine general dentistry check-up visit. They become necessary once a person reaches the age of 45. The screening itself is very easy and does not involve pain or discomfort on the patient's end. The dentist will touch the inner tissues of the oral cavity and examine…