What’s a good alternative to losing a tooth? Not losing one!
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults. It’s also a disease that half of all American adults have – and three out of every four adults over 65 have it.
So how does gum disease happen? Gum disease is a inflammatory disease that occurs when bacteria from plaque (the sticky stuff that builds up in your mouth and sticks to your teeth) sets in below the gum line and around the roots of your teeth. When it’s left untreated, it can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth and may eventually lead to weakened roots and tooth loss.
Luckily there are plenty of things you can do to prevent gum disease from wreaking any havoc on your teeth.
5 ways You Can Prevent Gum Disease!
- Brush and Floss Your Teeth Daily – Regularly brushing and flossing will go a long way in the battle against gum disease. BUT flossing correctly and brushing the right way will offer you the best protection to fight off the bacteria lurking around your teeth and below the gum line – without harming your gums.
- Regular Dental Checkups and Teeth Cleanings– Maintain your semi-annual or annual visits with your dentist. Regular teeth cleanings will help keep any pesky plaque from building up and routine exams will help your dentist identify any early signs of gum disease before it can cause any symptoms. Regularly visiting your dentist might not be fun (we do try!). But the alternative to possible tooth loss is surely worth every moment!
- Don’t Smoke – Do you smoke? Smoking is a primary contributor to gum disease. Why? It decreases circulation that helps keep your gums healthy.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet –Healthy life, healthy gums. Staying on a balanced diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals will help keep your gums healthy and help you fight off gum disease.
- Minimize Sugary Foods – The bacteria that causes gum disease thrives on sugar! Try and control sugary and eat More Foods that create saliva flow, which can help to wash away some of the sugars you consume.
Tip: Here are some tips.
There’s no reason to lose a tooth to gum disease. Even if you have gum disease, we can help you eliminate it or effectively treat it.
If it’s been a while since you, or someone you know, has visited a dentist, now would be a good time to schedule a dental exam and teeth cleaning. Just call (206) 524-1000 to schedule your appointment.