How to Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease has been called a silent disease because it can cause such serious health issues as heart disease, artery blockage and stroke. Gum disease gets its start from bacteria and plaque in the mouth and can advance to periodontitis and tooth loss. Here are some steps to help you prevent gum disease.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps you produce saliva, which helps neutralize the harmful bacteria that can cause gum disease.

2. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. Brushing twice a day will remove plaque and flossing daily will get in between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach.

3. Use a mouth rinse that has been approved by the American Dental Association.

4. Visit your dentist every six months or as recommended for check-ups.

5. Maintain a healthy diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is just as critical to your oral health as the rest of your body.

6. Avoid tobacco products. Some research shows that smokers are at a higher increase of risk for developing gum disease. However, quitting smoking and improving general oral hygiene can reverse the negative effects caused by smoking.

Tips & Warnings

• Educate yourself on the warning signs of gum disease.
• As many as 80% of people have some form of gum disease. Practice good oral hygiene to care for your teeth properly.

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[algaelad]

on 4/29/2009 Get plenty of vitamin C.

[momsrule]

on 1/18/2009 I use a Phillips sonic toothbrush. It helps a lot. When I go to the dentist, they hardly have to do a thing. Important article! Gum disease has been implicated in causing or worsening conditions...heart disease etc..