While common, preventing gingivitis is easy. Nearly half of American adults over 30 will experience some form of gum disease. Like any oral health problem, prevention is the best defense against gum disease.
With an office in The Woodlands, Texas, Scott Young, DDS, provides dental services for the greater Houston region, including the communities of Highland Village, West University, River Oaks, Rice Village, and Memorial.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. The most common symptoms are red, swollen gums and bleeding when you brush and floss. It can also cause bad breath and tooth sensitivity.
If left untreated, gingivitis worsens over time and can lead to periodontitis, which is the most serious stage of gum disease and can cause tooth loss.
The good news is that gingivitis is reversible when caught and treated early. And despite how common it is, gingivitis is preventable.
Here are five tips and tricks to help you avoid gingivitis and protect your oral health, especially as you get older.
It might sound obvious, but brushing after meals and flossing daily is the best thing you can do to prevent gingivitis, as well as other oral health problems like cavities.
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, and make sure to brush thoroughly and consistently. Change your toothbrush every few months or when the bristles become bent or frayed.
If you haven’t been flossing daily, now is a great time to start. The time of day doesn’t matter as much as maintaining consistency. If you struggle to remember to floss at night, try flossing in the morning or after lunch to lock in the habit.
Regular dental exams and professional cleanings (once every six months is recommended for most people) are also important factors in preventing gingivitis and gum disease. While there are signs and symptoms that accompany gingivitis and gum disease, you may not always have visible symptoms.
Regular cleanings and dental exams catch what your toothbrush and flossing might miss.
From preventing dry mouth and keeping you hydrated to washing away food particles that can get stuck between your teeth, drinking enough water is essential in preventing gingivitis and gum disease.
Most people know that eating (and drinking) too much sugar can wreak havoc on your oral health. But in addition to avoiding foods that are bad for your teeth and gums, it’s also crucial to eat for your oral health, specifically nutrient-rich fruit and vegetables.
Genetics and family history play a role in your risk of developing gum disease. If gum disease runs in your family, it’s essential to keep up with your oral hygiene and schedule regular dental exams and cleanings.
For more information about gum disease prevention and treatment, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in The Woodlands, Texas.
