More and more research is surfacing about gum disease, making prevention more critical than ever. The term “gum disease” refers to an infection of the gum tissue and surrounding bones. The gum disease, gingivitis, affects only the gums.

A more severe form of gum disease, periodontitis, affects both the gums and the bones that support your teeth. There is a link between gum disease and serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. Most people don’t realize they have gum disease until it’s too late, so it’s important to take extra precautions.

You can prevent gum disease by following these six tips.

1. Maintain good oral hygiene

Although it may seem obvious, good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy gums. When it comes to gum disease, brushing your teeth is not sufficient. Our periodontist in Alexandria agrees that flossing should be incorporated into your daily routine to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth and damaging your gums. You may also benefit from using an antimicrobial mouthwash that contains little to no alcohol.

2. Increasing your intake of vitamin C

Gum disease has been linked to vitamin C deficiencies. Increasing your intake of vitamin C will not only help prevent gum disease from developing, but it can also treat and, in some cases, cure it. In addition to its healing properties, vitamin C is also capable of stabilizing loosened teeth and preventing gum swelling and receding.

3. Follow a healthy diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease. You should avoid sugary foods and drinks since they can cause tooth decay and gum disease. It is important to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, as this will boost your immunity and help prevent many diseases, including gum disease.

4. Make sure you stay hydrated.

Hydration is essential for preventing gum disease and promoting overall health. Water helps produce more saliva, which helps fight off bacteria that can cause gum infection.

5. Give up smoking

Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products can lead to countless health problems, including gum disease. The use of tobacco products can cause serious damage to your gum tissues, so you should avoid them at all costs.

6. Be sure to see your dentist on a regular basis.

The importance of visiting your dentist regularly cannot be overstated. In order to prevent gum disease, it is advisable to have your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly to ensure there are no warning signs of gum disease or other dental problems.

In addition to harming your oral health, gum disease can also have a detrimental effect on your overall health. Taking the above recommendations into consideration will lower your risk of developing gum disease. If you would like more information or tips regarding the prevention of gum disease, please contact our periodontics office in Alexandria, VA to schedule an appointment.