Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround a patient’s teeth. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Thankfully, with adequate home care and periodic visits to the dentist, gum disease prevention in Indianapolis IN is accessible to all patients.
Home Prevention
Brushing and flossing daily doesn’t just prevent cavities. It also stops the progression of gum disease. Just make sure to use fluoridated toothpaste, brush along the gum line, and floss daily to get rid of plaque between the teeth.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Foods that are high in sugar or starch increase plaque, which can contribute to gum disease. Foods that are high in vitamins A and C, on the other hand, provide essential nutrients. There’s no one diet prescribed for gum disease prevention in Indianapolis IN, but eating healthy, getting plenty of nutrients, and avoiding sugary and starchy foods can help.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking cigarettes contributes to gum disease. Smokeless tobacco products like dip, chew, and vape pens all have similar negative effects.
Be Aware of Medications
Certain medications can elevate patients’ risk of getting gum disease or contribute to existing periodontal disease. These include some oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and heart medications. Patients should never stop taking medications prescribed by their doctors without their approval, but they should be aware of their associated risks and may want to schedule more frequent visits to the dentist.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Even patients who never miss a day of brushing and flossing can’t fight off gum disease by themselves. They also need to schedule routine cleanings and exams at their dentists. Healthy patients should visit their dentists for professional cleanings every six months, but those who are already noticing signs of gum disease must head to the dentist more frequently.
Get Help Now
Already suffering from symptoms of gum disease such as bleeding gums, mouth pain, and inflammation and want to do something about it now before it gets any worse? With the help of a dentist, patients can often halt the progression of periodontal disease. Browse our website to learn about one local dental office that can help today.
