How to Prevent Gum Disease

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Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Gum Disease

A build-up of plaque on the teeth will cause bleeding of the gums which can progress to breakdown of the supporting tissues and potential loss of teeth. The process of gum disease is not normally painful until the advanced stages when it will be much harder to treat.

How you can help prevent gum disease?

  • Regular teeth cleaning to remove plaque, especially in the areas next to the gum using a toothbrush, floss, interdental brushes etc.
  • A healthy diet high in antioxidants and omega 3 and low in sugar will help prevent gum disease.
  • Regular dental examinations to spot the early signs of the disease and regular hygiene appointments are essential.

 

Tooth Decay (Dental Caries)

Regular dental checks can help your dentist spot signs of tooth decay early and identify any cavities (holes or damage in the teeth). Tooth decay is much easier to treat successfully in its early stages.

Top tips for preventing Tooth Decay

A good diet is significant in preventing tooth decay (dental caries). Studies have shown that the frequency of sugar intake is more important than the amount, if you or your children are constantly snacking on sugary foods, there is a continuous acid attack on your teeth. By focusing food and sugar intake to set mealtimes your teeth will have a chance to be repaired naturally (remineralisation).

Cleaning your teeth

Brush your teeth twice a day (morning and night) with fluoride toothpaste.
Apply toothpaste to a dry brush and avoid rinsing with water after brushing, this ensures that the fluoride in the toothpaste stays in contact with the teeth for as long as possible thus maximising the protective effect.

If you are looking for further information about looking after your teeth ask your dentist.  Information can also be found at www.dentalhealth.org