Preventing Gum Disease

Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth due to gum disease than from decay-cavities. Gum disease affects greater than three out of four adults at some point in their lives. The best means of preventing both decay and periodontal disease starts by you performing effective twice daily tooth brushing and flossing coupled with periodontal specialty evaluation and care (scaling and root planning below the gums). Unfortunately, even the most diligent personal dental care has been shown to be insufficient in preventing the development of periodontal disease. Once periodontal disease becomes established, professional intervention and at times, surgery are often necessary to stop the progress of disease and stabilize your oral health.

Other important risk factors that can negatively affect the health of your gums include: tobacco usage, stress, clenching and grinding teeth, certain medications and poor nutrition.