Nobody wants to suffer the discomfort and added expense that comes with gum disease. In this post we’ll share tips from a dentist in Marlton for protecting yourself from this serious health problem. Use this information to keep your teeth and gums in good shape for the rest of your life.
Seven Risk Factors to Be Aware of
Here are seven factors that can put you at special risk for gum disease:
- Tobacco use: Tobacco contains toxins that wear away at tooth enamel, exposing the sensitive pulp inside to harmful bacteria. It can also interfere with your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from your food. There’s no better time than now to adopt a smoke-free lifestyle.
- Poor diet: Speaking of nutrients, your body needs plenty of them in order to keep your teeth and gums in good shape. This means getting lots of protein, healthy unsaturated fats, complex carbs, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also means minimizing your intake of sugars, alcohol, and simple starches like those found in many snack foods.
- Teeth clenching: grinding your teeth is like putting them in a vice and squeezing. Over time it can cause them to chip, crack, or fracture, putting them at greater risk for gum disease.
- Chronic conditions: illnesses such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and uncontrolled diabetes can provoke an inflammatory response in your body, leading to greater risk for gum disease in Marlton.
- Medication side effects: a few prescription drugs can have adverse effects for oral health. These include some heart medicines, antidepressants, and oral contraceptives. You may want to check the list of side effects for all your medicines and ask your dentist or other healthcare provider about substitutions. Never stop taking any prescription drug without express medical approval.
- Stress: whether it’s from work-related matters or personal issues, stress can short-circuit your body’s ability to care for itself. Some ways to control this problem include systematic relaxation, meditation, and exercise.
- Hereditary factors: some of us inherit a greater risk factor for gum disease from our ancestors. Nobody can change their lineage. But you may want to see your dentist for more frequent exams and cleanings if you have a family history of dental problems.
Giving Yourself the Gift of Healthy Teeth and Gums
Enjoying healthy teeth and gums does take a little self-investment on your part. This includes regular brushing and flossing. Dentists recommend brushing at least two times a day for a full two minutes each time, otherwise known as the “2 x 2 rule.” You should also floss daily. If you dislike flossing, then you may want to consider an interdental toothbrush or water stream flossing device instead.
Combine these steps with regular dental visits and the other tips in this post and you’ll soon be on your way to healthier teeth and gums. That’s a great way to lay the foundation for a happier, healthier future. We wish you lots of happy smiles, both now and down the road.
About the Author
Dr. Kristin B. Petulla is a second-generation dentist who attended dental school at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, widely regarded as one of the top programs in the country. Her knowledge and skills give her the ability to treat a wide range of dental conditions, including gum disease. You can reach her office online or by calling (856) 983-4846.