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Did you know that once gum disease forms, there is no cure? Instead, routine care will be necessary to manage the disease and prevent serious complications, such as adult tooth loss. But what can people in Mansfield, TX, do you avoid the onset of periodontal disease in the first place? Let’s find out how preventive and general care can help protect your gums from this serious and widespread oral health concern.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Periodontal Disease

  1. Brushing Twice a Day: You should start your day by brushing your teeth for two minutes, and end your day the same way. We suggest using a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent any inadvertent damage to the enamel if you brush too hard. Also, be sure the toothpaste you use contains fluoride, which helps strengthen outer tooth enamel. When you remove food particles, you prevent plaque buildup, which could inflame gum tissue and lead to periodontal problems.
  2. Flossing Before Bed: While brushing is important, flossing is essential. Flossing removes the bits of food a toothbrush cannot, and is crucial for avoiding the onset of gingivitis and gum disease. You should floss your teeth every night before going to bed, going up and down the length of every tooth and dipping briefly below the gum line. For added protection, you could also floss after each meal as well. If you prefer to use a floss pick or a water flosser, that’s fine too, just as long as you clean between your teeth each day.
  3. Avoid Tobacco Products: Cigarettes and other tobacco products can exacerbate gum disease, making the onset of the advanced stage, periodontitis, more likely. At this stage, you have an increased risk of tooth loss. In addition, tobacco products have been linked to a variety of cancers, so we urge you to quit right away.
  4. Know the Warning Signs: When should you see your dentist? Look for any sudden changes to your gum tissue. For example, redness, soreness, swelling, recession, and bleeding when you brush or floss could mean gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease. In the gingivitis stage, we can reverse the problem. Otherwise, we can recommend treatments to manage the disease and prevent the advanced stage, preserving the health and stability of your smile. If you have any questions about identifying or treating gum disease, then please contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy a healthy smile, and avoid the onset of periodontal disease!

Do You Have Sore Gums?

If you feel like your smile could be at risk, then talk to our team today. For more information on improving oral health and safeguarding smiles, then schedule a consultation by calling our dentist’s office in Mansfield, TX, today at 817-473-6227.