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Step 1
Gum infection is the most common cause of tooth loss. This type of infection involves inflammation and decay of the structures that surround teeth, including gums, the ligaments that hold teeth in place, and the bone socket, that teeth are planted in.
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Step 2
Understand the risks. Gum disease generally occurs due to poor oral hygiene. The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis or gum infection. This causes your gums to become swollen and bleed with tooth brushing. If the infection is not controlled, plaque starts to form between your teeth and gums and attacks the supporting ligaments. It can even destroy the bone around the tooth. Warning signs of advanced disease are widening gaps between teeth, loose teeth, chronic bad breath, and a change in the way your teeth fit together.
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Step 3
Know you risk factors. A family history of oral disease may make you more likely to develop your own gum problems. Others at risk include people who grind their teeth, have diabetes, take certain medicines, or don’t eat properly.
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Step 4
Regular brushing and flossing helps prevent gum disease and helps stop the disease from progressing. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily can help reverse early forms of gum diseases. Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks between meals is also useful.
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Step 5
Visit your dentist twice a year for teeth cleaning. A simple exam and X-rays can determine if you have gum disease. If your gum problems are advanced, that does not mean you will lose your teeth. Deep cleaning procedures called scaling and root planning can help you keep your smile for years to come.
