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Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a serious condition that threatens your oral health. Thankfully, this condition can be entirely avoided if you take the proper steps. Gum disease develops over a long period of time, so there is ample opportunity to avoid this condition. Here is what you need to know about periodontitis.

WHAT IS PERIODONTITIS?

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease where the symptoms become much more serious. In this stage, the gums around the tooth are inflamed. This pulls gums away from the teeth. The space between the tooth and the gum is referred to as a pocket. This then becomes infected with bacterial growth. The natural reaction of the body is to release chemicals to get rid of the bacteria. But this, combined with the bacteria itself, can break down bone as well as the connective tissue that holds the teeth in place. Left untreated, periodontitis leads to loose teeth and eventual loss.

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE

The condition of your overall oral health is largely in your control and the control of your dentist. No one has to get periodontal disease. This is not a genetic condition, nor is it a condition where the cause is unknown. Dentists and other professionals know exactly what causes gum disease, and there are very definite things you can do to prevent it.

1. HAVE REGULAR VISITS WITH YOUR DENTIST TO CHECK FOR GUM DISEASE

The number one thing you can do to prevent gum disease is to have regular visits with your dentist. Dr. Ronald F. Jacob, DMD in Palm Coast/ Holly Hill Florida is on the front line of the battle against gum disease. During these routine exams, your dentist looks for early indications of gum disease. With early detection, treatment can be undertaken that will prevent gum disease from occurring or progressing. Take your dentist’s recommendation for your appointment schedule very seriously, and never put off a visit to the dentist.

2. FLOSS EVERY TIME YOU BRUSH YOUR TEETH

Have you ever visited the dentist and been admonished by the dental hygienist for not flossing your teeth? That’s because flossing is so important to ward off gum disease. The sides of your teeth between each other have a flat surface. Because your teeth are so narrow in thickness, it’s easy to forget that food debris and bacteria can accumulate on the sides just as it does on the front and back surfaces of the teeth. Flossing works to clean the sides of your teeth. Remember that even teeth that are closely abutted next to each other can have microscopic bacteria between them, so every tooth needs to be flossed.

3. AVOID PERIODONTITIS FORMING SUGARY DRINKS AND FOOD

Bacteria thrive on sugar. When you ingest sweet drinks and sugary food, this aids the growth of oral bacteria, which can eventually lead to gum disease. Although moderation is key, in general try to stay away from sweetened items. Some drinks and foods to avoid include:

• Alcohol
• Candy
• Fruit Juice
• Sugar in any form

If you have regular dentist checkups, floss regularly and avoid foods and drink that lead to gum disease, your oral health will be better. Your dentist in Palm Coast/ Holly Hill Florida can help you with more ways to optimize your oral health. If you’re concerned about advancing gum disease, be sure to make your dentist appointment with Dr. Ronald F. Jacob, DMD as soon as possible to begin treatment.