5 Ways to Lower Your Risk for Gum Disease

Even if your teeth are free of cavities, you can still have unhealthy gums. And if your gums aren’t healthy, you’re at risk for gum disease. 

Gum disease — also referred to as periodontal disease — is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. The primary cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth daily, it can harden into tartar that’s impossible to remove on your own. Once tartar is allowed to build up under your gums, it leads to gum disease.

If left untreated, gum disease can severely damage not only your gums but also the jawbone beneath them. 

Destruction of gum tissue and jawbone can lead to permanent tooth loss. Thankfully, you can do plenty of things on your own to prevent the onset of gum disease. 

Because Paula Skowronski-Adamiak, DDS, and the rest of our team at Oasis Family Dental in Jefferson Park, Chicago, are so passionate about preventative dentistry, we’ve provided five ways you can lower your risk of gum disease in this month’s blog.

1. Brush Twice a Day with Fluoride Toothpaste

Brush right after eating to remove food particles before they can harm your gums. For the best results, use an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to maximize plaque removal.

2. Floss Regularly

Brushing alone isn’t enough—flossing helps remove plaque and food debris stuck between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. It doesn’t matter when you floss, as long as you do it at least once a day.

3. Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash

A therapeutic mouthwash helps remove bacteria and debris missed by brushing and flossing. It can also reduce tartar buildup and prevent gum disease. You can find therapeutic mouthwashes at your local drugstore.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking negatively affects your overall health, including your gums. It accelerates gum disease, weakens your immune system, and makes it harder to fight infections or recover from gum damage. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health.

5. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular dental visits allow professionals to detect early signs of gum disease and treat them before they cause irreversible damage. Plus, professional cleanings are the only way to effectively remove tartar and lower your risk of gum disease.

To schedule a dental cleaning or learn more about preventing gum disease, call our Jefferson Park office or book an appointment online today!