Preventing Gum Disease

Why do I need professional teeth cleanings?

Adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to periodontal diseases than from cavities. At least three out of four adults are affected to some degree at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal diseases is by daily thorough tooth brushing, flossing, rinsing and tongue scrapping techniques, as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people can still develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to minimize the chance for progression.

Other important factors that can negatively affect the health of your gums include: tobacco usage, stress, clenching and grinding teeth, some medications, and poor nutrition.

Periodontal Disease & Tobacco

You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer, and heart disease. A plethora of studies have also linked periodontal disease with tobacco usage. Cases of periodontal disease are more frequent and severe in heavy smokers and tobacco-users than those who do not use tobacco. There is a greater incidence of calculus formation on teeth, deeper pockets between gums and teeth, and a greater loss of the bone and fibers that hold teeth in your mouth. In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of smokeless tobacco.

Chemicals in tobacco such as nicotine and tar also slow down healing and the predictability of success following periodontal treatment. (Smoking suppresses the immune system.)  Quitting smoking and tobacco-use can have numerous benefits for your overall and periodontal health.