Preventing Gum Disease

 Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases than from cavities. At least 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 personal oral hygiene and regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people can still develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is important to prevent its progress and to restore lost bone.

Other important factors that can negatively affect the health of your gums include: tobacco usage, stress, clenching and grinding teeth, some medications, and poor nutrition.

Periodontal Disease & Tobacco

You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer, and heart disease. There is also strong evidence linking periodontal disease with tobacco usage. Cases of periodontal disease are more severe in smokers and tobacco users than those who do not use tobacco. In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of tobacco (even smokeless tobacco).

Chemicals in tobacco such as nicotine and tar also slow down healing and the predictability of success following periodontal treatment and implant placement. Quitting smoking and tobacco-use can have numerous benefits for your overall and periodontal health.