How Do You Prevent Gum Disease?

In the United State, millions of adults suffer from periodontal disease. Without treatment, this widespread issue can lead to a greater risk of adult tooth loss. Fortunately, with the proper steps and a preventive approach to your oral health, you can reduce your risk. How do you prevent gum disease? What steps do you need to take?

Try Our Quiz on Gum Disease Prevention

1. True or False: Inflammation leads to gum disease.
2. True or False: We can reverse the problem in the gingivitis stage.
3. True or False: Brushing and flossing can help protect your smile.
4. True or False: You should undergo routine dental cleanings.

Answer Key

1. True. When our gums become inflamed, they can pull away from the teeth, exposing pockets in the gum line. Bacteria can then infiltrate these pockets, leading to the onset of the disease. Common warning signs of inflammation, also known as gingivitis, can include soreness in the gums, redness, or bleeding when you brush or floss. Don’t ignore these warning signs. Instead, see your dentist right away for a diagnosis.
2. True. Once gum disease forms it is incurable. We will need to manage it to prevent the onset of serious complications that often occur in the advanced stge. However, in the gingivitis stage we can reverse the issue entirely. However, you will need to see us right away once symptoms appear.
3. True. When we brush and floss our teeth, we help reduce the severity of plaque buildup, protecting the gums. You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day without exception.
4. True. A dental cleaning is the only way to completely remove buildup and protect your gums. Even if you brush and floss correctly, you still need to see the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning.

Do You Need to Schedule a Visit?

At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we can examine your smile and recommend treatment to help protect your smile from gum disease. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.