Preventing Gum Disease

Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and Periodontal Diseases is by daily thorough tooth brushing and flossing techniques and regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Other important factors affecting the health of your gums include:

  • Tobacco usage

  • Diabetes

  • Stress

  • Clenching and grinding teeth

  • Medication

  • Poor nutrition

Periodontal Disease & Tobacco

You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer, and heart disease.

Current studies have now linked periodontal disease with tobacco usage.  These cases may be even more severe than those of non-users of tobacco.  There is a greater incidence of calculus formation on teeth, deeper pockets between gums and teeth as well as greater loss of the bone and fibers that hold teeth in your mouth.  In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of smokeless tobacco.

Chemicals in tobacco such as nicotine and tar slow down healing and the predictability of success following periodontal treatment.

Problems caused by tobacco include:

  • Lung disease

  • Heart disease

  • Cancer

  • Mouth sores

  • Gum recession

  • Loss of bone and teeth

  • Bad breath

  • Tooth staining

  • Tobacco use can interfere with the healing process of periodontal treatments and dental implants

Quitting tobacco will reduce the chance of developing the above problems.

Diabetes & Oral Health

Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolled diabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infections of the mouth. These infections may impair your ability to process insulin, resulting in greater difficulty with controlling your diabetes. Periodontal diseases will be more severe than those of a non-diabetic and treatment more difficult.  However, well-controlled diabetics have a lower incidence of cavities.

Steps to prevent periodontal disease include daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque from your teeth and gums, regular dental visits for professional cleaning, and regular periodontal evaluation. Your health professional must also be told of your history and the current status of your condition.  And finally, you can help resist periodontal infection by maintaining control of your blood sugar levels.

 

If you are concerned about periodontal disease or if you would like to schedule an appointment for periodontal maintenance and routine care, please call our San Angelo office today.