Is Gum Disease Really Preventable?

Gum disease might be one of the most common dental diseases, but fortunately, it is also one of the most preventable. Gum disease begins as an infection in your gum tissues (gingivitis) that is caused by the excessive buildup of oral bacteria. By preventing this buildup, you can prevent gingivitis. However, if gingivitis forms, it can quickly mature into incurable gum disease, giving you a small window to reverse the infection and avoid gum disease development. Therefore, in addition to consistently good hygiene at home, successfully preventing gum disease also requires regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease occurs in varying stages, with gingivitis being the first and most mild. As it progresses, gum disease changes from a minor infection into a disastrous disease that erodes healthy gum tissues and your underlying jawbone structure. Because its symptoms are often discreet at first, gum disease is often allowed to become severe before patients seek treatment, making it the number one cause of tooth loss for adults.

How to Prevent It

Preventing oral bacteria buildup means brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once, without fail. Otherwise, oral bacteria and the plaque they form will have a chance to harden into tartar, which protects oral bacteria from your toothbrush and floss. To remove tartar and bacteria from your teeth and gum line, it’s also important to attend regular checkups and cleanings, where your dentist can carefully remove all traces of the biofilms and check your gums carefully for signs of early disease.

Prevent Gum Disease with Help from Your Dentist

The good news about gum disease is that it’s highly preventable with good hygiene and help from your dentist. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call our office in Baxter, MN at (218) 454-0523. We proudly welcome patients from Brainerd, Little Falls, Staples, Crosby-Ironton-Deerwood, and all surrounding communities.