Prevention of Gum disease

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Gum disease can be prevented by practising good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing or interdental brushes to clean in between the teeth daily. This removes the plaque forming constantly on your teeth and reduces the likelihood of the plaque causing gum inflammation.

Rotating oscillating electric toothbrushes have been shown to be more efficient at reducing plaque than a manual toothbrush.

There are a number of specialist toothpastes on the market specifically formulated to help treat gum disease and some to control tartar. Look for toothpastes containing the antibacterial triclosan and specific anti-tartar ingredients.

You should visit your dentist at least once every year, although if you have periodontal disease you may need to go much more frequently. If gum disease is treated it will be possible to stop any further loss of supporting bone although it will not be possible to bring back bony support that has already been lost.

Your dentist may also advise you to visit a dental hygienist who can remove plaque build-up and calculus from your teeth and show you the best ways to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Quitting smoking can help reduce your risk of gum disease and other oral diseases such as cancer of the mouth.