According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease leads to tooth loss and is actually the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. Research also shows that gum disease may be higher in cities with large poor and/or minority populations, like Philadelphia, where access to affordable dental care and resources may be limited. While that statistic may sound daunting, the good news is that gum disease is actually highly preventable. Follow the below five steps to help prevent gum disease:
1. Don’t Smoke: Smoking or chewing tobacco is the leading cause of gum disease in the country, besides being linked to a number of other serious illnesses, including cancer and heart disease. Cease smoking immediately to lower your chances of getting periodontal disease.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, especially after meals. And to really brush thoroughly, you should brush for at least two minutes. Use gentle, short strokes, and pay extra attention to hard-to-reach areas, as well as the gumline. Flossing is also important, as it removes plaque and debris between teeth that a toothbrush can’t get to. Finally, rinse with a natural mouth wash to treat teeth and gums.
3. Eat A Balanced, Healthy Diet: Try to avoid foods containing large amounts of sugar and starches, especially sugar-filled drinks like soda, as well as sticky candies which can damage your teeth. A diet that is low in nutritional value makes it harder for the body’s immune system to fight off infection, and because periodontal disease begins with an infection, poor nutrition can worsen the condition of your gums.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Visiting your dentist to get professional cleanings and check-ups is crucial to preventing, identifying, and treating potential problems.
5. Schedule a Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation (CPE): During a CPE, a periodontist will assess your periodontal health by examining teeth, gums, plaque, bone structure, and risk factors. The periodontist will then diagnose any existing disease, and determine a necessary treatment. The American Academy of Periodontology has a checklist you can print out and bring with you to your appointment.
To learn more about periodontal disease, contact Philadelphia periodontist the Pennsylvania Center for Dental Implants and Periodontics at 215-677-8686.
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