How to Avoid the Need for Periodontal Therapy

Want to avoid the need for periodontal therapy? It all comes down to having healthy gums and teeth. Otherwise, you could find yourself in need of advanced treatment to reverse serious health problems.

Some Troubling Facts about Gum Disease

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in two American adults is suffering from some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Left untreated, the condition can spread throughout the patient’s mouth, causing widespread tooth loss and bone resorption. If the problem reaches an advanced stage, then aggressive therapy may be required to treat the symptoms.

Gum disease begins in the teeth. Right now, as you read these words, there is a war going on inside your mouth between your immune system and cavity-causing bacteria. This battle goes on 24 hours a day seven days a week throughout your entire life. These germs are what cause tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Unfortunately, some people are at special risk of developing this serious health condition. This can be due to many causes, including side effects of certain antibiotics, hereditary issues, and lifestyle choices.

The good news is that you can slash your risks of periodontal disease by keeping your teeth and gums healthy. It all comes down to the following five factors:

1. How often you brush and floss. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day. Brushing after every meal is even better. You should make sure you clean all sides of your teeth. You should also run the brush along the roof of your mouth and your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate in those areas as well.
2. The foods you eat less of. Cavity-causing bacteria thrive on sugars and simple starches. That’s why dentist urge their patients to consume these foods only as occasional treats. Otherwise you’re giving your microscopic enemies the raw fuel they need to wreak havoc on your teeth and gums.
3. The foods you eat more of. Avoiding sweets and simple sugars is only one side of the coin. You should also increase your consumption of things like raw fruits and vegetables, lean protein and calcium sources, and healthy whole grains. These items contain the nutrients your body needs in order to keep your teeth and gums thriving.
4. The personal habits you adopt. For example, tobacco use in any form is detrimental to your teeth and gums, not to mention the rest of your body. Excessive alcohol consumption is also harmful for your dental health. Alcohol contains corrosive acids that eat away at your teeth’s protective enamel. If you drink at all, then do so only sparingly. You should also stay away from illicit drugs.
5. How often do you see your dentist. All of us should visit our dentist every six months or so for a full examination and cleaning. Otherwise plaque can harden into tartar, a substance which can do great harm to our teeth and gums.

No one is immune from the risk of developing gum disease. But all of us can increase our odds of enjoying good dental health by following the tips in this post. There’s no better way to keep your smile in top shape over the long haul.

About the Author

Dr. Hodong Kwon is proud to provide state-of-the-art dental care to his patients in Dallas and the surrounding area. Dr. Kwon earned his DDS degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. You can reach his office online or by calling (214) 350-8608.