Gum disease is the inflammation of the tissues around your teeth and can lead to tooth loss and tooth extraction. While practicing good brushing and flossing habits and visiting the dentist regularly is a crucial component to preventing many oral health problems, there may be a few more things you can do to prevent gum disease. To help you gain a better understanding of the disease and ways to prevent it, local Chillicothe, OH, practice William U. Britton DDS, MAGD answers their most frequently asked questions regarding gum disease below.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

You may see the signs of gum disease before you feel them so it’s important to know what to be on the lookout for. If your gums start to bleed easily when you’re brushing or flossing or you notice that your teeth are becoming overly sensitive to cold or hot temperatures, you may be on your way to developing gum disease. Additionally, if your teeth are becoming loose or your gums are swollen, red, and tender, consult with your dentist.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Like all oral health problems, prevention starts with good dental hygiene. Make sure you’re flossing and brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two to three minutes with fluoridated toothpaste. For the prevention of all oral health problems, you should also be visiting the dentist twice yearly for a professional cleaning.

Are There Certain Lifestyle Choices That Can Affect My Chances of Having Gum Disease?

Believe it or not, certain diet and lifestyle choices can also affect your oral health. While many people are aware of the negative effects smoking can have on your oral health, some may be surprised to learn that there are certain foods that can actually improve your dental health. Staying away from sugary and starchy foods can help decrease the amount of plaque in your mouth and decrease your risk for gum disease. Adding more citrus fruits and vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts that are rich in vitamins A and C can also help you prevent gum disease.

For more tips on preventing gum disease and other oral health issues, or to schedule an appointment call the office of William U. Britton DDS, MAGD at (740) 772-2225 today. You can also visit them online for more information.