It might surprise you to learn that nearly half of American adults have some form of periodontal disease. Even mild to moderate forms of the disease can threaten your overall health. The good news is that, while some might be more susceptible than others to gum disease, it’s mostly preventable. That said, many ask us what steps they need to take to make sure they are keeping their gums in good health, so we wanted to take some time to address these preventative steps!

North Atlanta Aesthetic Dentistry is proud to provide general and family dentistry for those around Alpharetta, Georgia. With regular checkups and cleanings for the whole family, you’ll be better off when it comes to fighting and avoiding gum disease. Dr. Gurley and his experienced team can recognize warning signs that might be hard to catch at home, and can consult you on what you need to do to keep your gums healthy and happy. Call our dental office today! Or, keep reading to learn more about what you can do to prevent periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is essentially gum disease. It can range from minor gingivitis to more severe periodontitis. When it remains untreated, periodontal disease can cause the gums and underlying bone structure to recede or deteriorate. There’s even research that suggests that gum disease might be associated to more systemic health issues, like heart disease and diabetes.

The cause of periodontal disease is fairly straightforward. As plaque builds up around your teeth, bacteria tends to follow it. Once the bacteria permeates the gumline, your gums can become red and inflamed. This is typically when early stages of the disease set in like gingivitis. And, fortunately, with some hygiene efforts, you can reduce the risks that follow gingivitis.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

The best way to fight periodontal disease is by way of prevention. That said, it’s important to know whether or not you’re naturally more at risk for gum disease. If so, you’ll need to be more rigorous about your dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day is a must, as well as flossing once per day to clear the plaque from between your teeth.

Flossing is important, despite recent news that it might not be essential, because it’s the best way to clear plaque below the gumline between teeth. At the end of your hygiene routine, it’s always a good idea to swish some mouthwash.

Avoid Periodontal Disease With Regular Checkups!

Regular 6 month checkups and cleanings are a great way to fight periodontal disease! You can call us at 770-664-1244. You can also contact us here.