When we take good care of our smiles from home, we can help protect ourselves from issues like tooth decay, and even the threat of periodontal disease. Which is why we want to make sure you know how to properly brush and floss, and choose healthier snack options. In today’s blog, your Encinitas/San Diego, CA, periodontist talks about boosting your oral hygiene!

Poor Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Disease

When we don’t take time to brush and floss daily, this can allow particles from the foods and drinks we consume to accumulate between the teeth and along the gumline. Harmful oral bacteria can then consume them, a process that creates plaque buildup that coats the teeth. The buildup then irritates the gingival tissues to cause gingivitis and even periodontal disease. Which is why we urge you to care for your smiles daily! You should brush your teeth when you wake up and then again before you go to bed at night, for about two minutes each session. Be sure you clean along the gum line too. To avoid irritating the gums, try to use a soft bristled toothbrush. Fluoride toothpastes can be helpful too!

You also need to floss in the evening before you brush that second time, which helps remove the trapped particles of sugar and starch that a toothbrush alone cannot reach. You can use tape, string, or a floss pick, just clean up and down each side of the teeth and dip beneath the gum line each time.

Poor Nutrition and Gum Disease

What we eat and drink is a major factor too! When we consume items high in sugar and starch, these particles act as meals for harmful bacteria to create plaque and cause issues with your periodontal health. Which is why we recommend cutting back on the amount of sugar and starch in your diet. Instead, try to add healthier snack and meal options, like fresh fruits and vegetables. Be sure you choose options that contain helpful ingredients like calcium, vitamin D and C, and omega 3 fatty acids. This not only fights periodontal disease, but also lowers the risk of tooth decay and dental infection too!

Choosing Healthier Habits

You should also be seeing your general dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months. If you’re already seeing us to manage the presence of gingivitis or periodontal disease, then we could provide supportive periodontal maintenance every three to four months to control buildup and help keep your gums strong.

Talk to Dr. Kania About Improving Your Oral Hygiene

With healthier habits you can protect your teeth and gums from disease and discomfort! To learn more about safeguarding your gum health, or to schedule your appointment, give us a call at our office in Encinitas, CA today at 760-642-0711.