Did you know nearly half of adults over 30 might need periodontal care? And as we get older, that need keeps going up. By the time we hit 65, an extraordinary 70.1% of us might have gum issues, which can mean regular trips to the dentist. But there is some good news. You can reduce the need for periodontal care by following some expert tips. Keep reading to learn how you can prevent periodontal disease.
What Is Periodontal Care?
Also known as deep cleaning or periodontal maintenance, this procedure involves thoroughly cleaning your teeth to prevent periodontal diseases. Periodontal diseases can cause inflammation in the tissues around your teeth, such as the gums, bone, cementum, and ligaments. It’s recommended that those with existing oral issues have periodontal care every 3 to 4 months.
Tips for Preventing the Need for Periodontal Care
Periodontal care is critical if you start noticing signs and symptoms of gum disease. However, you can prevent getting to this stage of periodontal care by following the tips below.
Practicing Good Oral Hygiene
Impeccable oral hygiene is the key to preventing the need for periodontal care. It begins with brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. Fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen the enamel and ward off decay. Also, floss once a day and rinse with fluoridated mouthwash. By brushing and flossing, you’re saying goodbye to pesky dental plaque, which can lead to cavities and gum issues.
When you brush, ensure your toothbrush bristles are angling towards the gum line. This helps to clean between the gum and tooth. Try brushing in gentle, circular motions instead of back and forth for a thorough clean. The goal is to reach all sides of the tooth. Also, don’t forget the tongue — give it a gentle brush for extra freshness.
For a thorough mouthwash, check the longevity of your toothbrush as well. Toothbrush bristles wear out, and dentists recommend replacing them every two to three months.
Mind Your Diet
Our choices of foods and beverages can raise the risk of contracting periodontal diseases. High sugar, high saturated fats and low fiber foods increase periodontal diseases. Aim for balance by cutting back on the sugary stuff like sodas, cakes, and candy canes. These treats often contain sucrose, a primary source of oral bacteria that can lead to gum issues.
There’s a whole world of delicious, tooth-friendly options out there. Dentists suggest adding more fish, fresh fruits, and veggies to your plate. Try green tea, guava, broccoli, carrots, strawberries and salmon. They have essential minerals such as calcium, zinc, and vitamins that are helpful for the teeth.
Periodontitis is one of the most common long-term effects of alcohol intake in the mouth. Heavy alcohol consumption weakens the body’s immunity. That makes it difficult to fight infections such as gum disease. Furthermore, drinkers tend to develop more plaque compared to non-drinkers, which can exacerbate gum diseases. If you choose to take alcohol, do so in moderation. Remember to prioritize your oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash after drinking to help mitigate any potential adverse effects on your teeth and gums.
Visit a Licensed Dentist Regularly
Did you know that visiting your dentist regularly reduces the risk of periodontitis by at least 32%? That’s why experts recommend visiting a licensed dentist at least once every six months. During a dental checkup, you will get the following services:
- A dental examination will help detect any signs of gum disease or other oral issues. Early detection helps treat the problem before it advances to a more severe stage of gum disease.
- Dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Personalized tips on how to boost your oral hygiene routine.
Additionally, committing yourself to regular dental checkups makes you more accountable. You can evaluate your adherence to the education and tips your dentist gave during your last session.
Quit Using Tobacco
Smoking or chewing tobacco products is a big risk factor for periodontitis. Smoking can lead to more tartar buildup on your teeth, putting extra stress on your gums. Plus, it can hide signs of gum disease like bleeding, making it hard to detect. This is why smokers are more likely to deal with severe periodontitis, often only caught at advanced stages.
Smoking will not only increase your risk of contracting gum diseases but also make you non-responsive to treatment. Steer clear of all tobacco products, whether it’s cigarettes, cigars, or snuff.
Stopping tobacco cravings can be challenging, but there are plenty of friendly strategies to help you succeed. For instance, consider trying nicotine replacement therapy to reduce your dependence gradually. Additionally, steering clear of triggers like parties and bars can make a big difference. If you enjoy chewing, why not swap tobacco for sugarless gum? It can provide a satisfying alternative. Engaging in physical activities you love can also distract your mind from cravings and boost your mood.
Reduce Your Stress Levels
Psychological stress can increase the risk and severity of periodontal disease. When stressed, you might forget to eat well or take care of your teeth properly and even turn to habits like smoking for comfort. Also, snacking can become more frequent when stressed. Additionally, stress can cause the body to produce more cortisol. Studies link the cortisol hormone to increased tooth loss and deeper pockets between teeth and gums.
To reduce stress levels, try daily relaxation. Practices such as meditation and yoga could also help. If you are experiencing severe psychological stress, seek therapy.
Manage Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Taking care of pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes and osteoporosis can help keep your gums healthy and reduce the need for periodontal care. For example, with diabetes, high blood sugar levels can make it easier for bacteria to grow in your mouth, potentially leading to gum diseases. Plus, diabetes can shrink blood vessels, which means less blood and nutrients get to your gums and bones, weakening them over time. Even some medications that reduce saliva can increase your risk of gum problems.
Similarly, hormonal changes during pregnancy or while using birth control pills can also elevate the likelihood of developing periodontal diseases. Conversing with a knowledgeable clinician about how to manage these pre-existing conditions or hormonal imbalances effectively is essential. This ultimately reduces the necessity for periodontal care in the long run.
Find Quality Periodontal Care in Boynton Beach
Taking preventive measures often helps avoid the need for periodontal care. However, there are times when the condition might still develop despite our best efforts. You may be dealing with periodontitis if you start noticing signs like bleeding gums, tenderness, swelling, bad breath, or loose teeth. Don’t worry, though. A visit to a licensed periodontist can provide urgent diagnosis and care.
At Erik’s Dental Group we are passionate about restoring your smile. Our dental team are here to provide top-notch dental procedures, including quality periodontal care, regular checkups, and professional dental cleanings.
Visit us at 3399 W. Woolbright Road or call us at 561-733-4004 to request an appointment.