Did you know that gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems? In fact, according to the CDC, about 47% of adults in the U.S. suffer from a form of gum disease. When proper oral hygiene isn’t practiced and dental checkups go ignored, we are subjecting ourselves to the onset of gum disease. This oral affliction is caused when the sticky film of plaque that forms after eating becomes tartar along the gum line, irritating the soft tissue and resulting in inflammation and infection.
When left untreated by a New Braunfels dentist, gum disease can have a severe impact on your oral and general health. In fact, many don’t know that gum disease is linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. As the best dentist in New Braunfels, we want to ensure you and your loved ones remain healthy through proper oral health so today, we’ll be discussing tips for preventing gum disease.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to minimize your risk of developing gum disease is to prevent it. There are plenty of ways to do this, with the first being maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing twice a day as well as flossing at least once a day. Our New Braunfels dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and brushing in circular motions for at least two minutes. If it’s possible, we recommend using an electric toothbrush as these models remove more plaque and food debris than manual brushing.
Your “best dentist near me” also recommends using a therapeutic mouthwash once a day to help eliminate residual bacteria and slow plaque development. Ideally, you should choose brands with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval as this ensures it is certified as safe and effective. Other things you can do to maintain a healthy smile are to quit smoking and maintain a balanced diet.
Smoking can weaken your immune system, which can make it difficult for your body to heal from gum disease. It also reduces saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth and gum recession, which can then lead to tooth decay. Additionally, eating a diet high in fiber is important as it provides essential nutrients to support tooth and gum health. It’s also imperative to drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth and flush away food and bacteria from your teeth.
While maintaining proper oral hygiene is important, it’s imperative to visit the “best dentist near me”, New Braunfels Dentists for regular dental checkups. Even when implementing proper oral hygiene practices, there’s a chance you may miss some plaque deposits from your gum line. The plaque that goes unremoved can turn into tartar which needs to be removed by a New Braunfels dentist.
Let the Best New Braunfels Dentist Protect Your Gums
If you’re due for a dental checkup or have noticed signs of gum disease, call the professionals at New Braunfels Dentists. Our team of caring dentists and dental hygienists will assess your oral health and provide you with the best treatment should it be needed beyond a cleaning. Don’t wait – request an appointment online or contact us today at 830.608.1818!
