Preventing Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a disease of the gums that, in its most extreme form, can cause your teeth to fall out. The early form of the disease is called gingivitis. The trouble with periodontitis is that even healthy teeth may come loose and need to be taken out by the dentist. To prevent gum disease brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. It is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth. You can suspect gingivitis if your gums are red, swollen, tender or bleeding. Gingivitis is reversible with good dental hygiene such as flossing and brushing the gums with a soft toothbrush.
If your gums have receded from your teeth, you have bad breath, bleeding or pus between the gums or loose teeth, then you probably have Periodontitis. The trouble with periodontitis is that even healthy teeth may come loose and need to be taken out by the dentist. To prevent gum disease brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day.
A good diet will help to prevent gum disease - and limiting those between-meal snacks. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and children especially should have plenty of dairy foods for calcium. Limit sugary drinks and drink them with a straw so that the liquid is taken to the back of the mouth and swallowed, rather than washing over the teeth all the time. Consume the drink all at once and rinse your mouth out with water straight away.