Posted

Even if you have high risk factors or developing gum disease, you can take steps to safeguard your smile. We’re looking at a few causes of periodontal problems, as well as potential solutions. To find out what you can do keep your smile gum disease free, try today’s quiz!

Try Our Quiz on Preventing Gum Disease  

  1. True or False: Plaque and poor oral hygiene make a dangerous combination.
  2. True or False: Brushing and flossing can help.
  3. True or False: You need to have your teeth professionally cleaned.
  4. True or False: Smoking can be a factor as well.

Answer Key

  1. True. When you don’t brush and floss your teeth as recommended, food particles can remain on or between your teeth. Bacteria then break down the particles, a process that elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in a bacterial byproduct known as plaque. Without removal, plaque can then irritate the gum tissue and make the onset of gum disease more likely.
  2. True. When you brush and floss your teeth, you don’t remove plaque. However, you do prevent it from forming by removing food particles and bacteria. These steps can help protect your gums. You should brush your teeth twice a day and always floss before going to bed.
  3. True. Every six months, you should see the dentist for a thorough dental cleaning. The procedure involves removing all plaque buildup with a manual tool or an ultrasonic scaler. The procedure can then safeguard the smile against periodontal disease.
  4. True. Smoking and tobacco use can make patients more likely to develop gum disease, including the advanced stage, periodontitis, which is responsible for adult tooth loss.

Do You Need a Dental Cleaning?

At Brighton Family Dental Group, we offer preventive options to help your smile stay free of periodontal problems. You can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Thomas Villani or Dr. Richard Kondrat by reaching out to our office at (617) 562-5210. We are proud to offer a range of dental services to patients from Brighton, Watertown, Cambridge, Brookline, Newton, and all neighboring communities.