Periodontal disease can lead to serious trouble for your smile, and we would like to help you avoid the issue altogether if possible. Along with seeing our team for management with dental lasers and other solutions, you can also improve your oral hygiene habits. In today’s blog, your Encinitas/San Diego, CA, periodontist talks about protecting your gums with good oral hygiene.
Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth
You should be brushing and flossing your teeth every day, which not only helps you avoid cavities, but can help prevent periodontal disease or manage it if you already have the disease. This is because these actions help remove the sugar and starch particles from your smile that feed harmful bacteria and lead to the plaque and tartar buildup that inflame the gums.
You should brush for two minutes when you wake up and again before bed. Approach the teeth with the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle for the side teeth and use circular actions for the front-facing ones, be sure you clean along the gums too. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the tissues, and employ a fluoride toothpaste to keep your outer enamel strong.
You also need to floss, as this removes the particles trapped between teeth and along the gum line, which your toothbrush cannot reach. You should floss up and down each side of every tooth and dip beneath the gum line when you do. This should happen every evening before your brush the second time.
Improving Your Nutritional Intake
What you eat also impacts your periodontal health! After all, sugar and starch can feed the bacteria behind inflammation and discomfort. Try to cut back on the sugar and starch in your diet. Add more fresh fruits and vegetables and foods and drinks with lots of Vitamins C and D. Omega-3 fatty acids are also good for your oral health. A balanced diet is good for your smile and your overall oral health too!
When to See Our Team
When should you see our team for periodontic treatment? If you have the disease and are currently seeking treatment, we may suggest a visit every three to four months to remove buildup and keep the issue in check. If you have not started care but notice your gums appear redder than usual, feel sore, and bleed easily, then please see us right away for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment. If you have any questions about improving your overall oral hygiene and nutrition, then talk to our office.
Schedule Your Visit to Protect Periodontal Health
With better oral hygiene habits, you can safeguard your periodontal health. To learn more about keeping your gums free of disease, or to schedule a consultation with our team, then call Dr. Ann Kania in Encinitas, CA, today at 760-642-0711.