Roughly half of Americans over the age of 30 half some form of periodontal disease. This is mostly attributed to poor oral hygiene practices at home and neglecting regular dentist visits. If your last trip to a dental clinic revealed early stages of dental caries, then there are various forms of procedures available. One new procedure that is gaining a lot of popularity these days is laser treatment for gum disease. Your family dentist will let you know if this option is suitable for you.
Gum disease prevention, though, begins in the home. Everyone knows to brush; however, most people don’t follow a strict daily hygiene regimen. For starters, you should brush at least twice daily and preferably within 30 minutes after every meal using fluoridated toothpaste. You should also floss at least once a day. This step is very important; nearly half of Americans do not floss daily and roughly one in five do not floss at all. Flossing is a critical step for removing films of bacteria caught in the inner recesses of your teeth and gums. Alternatively, you can opt for an electric water flosser if using a regular floss string feels too awkward.
In addition to brushing and flossing, you also have to be mindful of what you eat. Be especially careful of sugar, which bacteria feeds on and converts to acid that destroys your teeth enamel. Limit refined sugar and brush or rinse your mouth immediately after consuming anything with sugar or high fructose corn syrup.
Aside from the care at home, you also need to visit your dentist at least twice a year. This is a critical step that too many people neglect. If you are avoiding the dentist due to apprehension about having the inside of your mouth poked and prodded with sharp instruments, then know that there are new procedures available, such as laser treatment for gum disease. This is a method that is used to remove bacteria from inflamed gum tissue. The procedure is painless and can usually be completed within two sessions.
Periodontal disease is completely preventable with the right care at home and visiting the dentist regularly. Laser treatment for gum disease and other procedures are also available should a routine exam reveal that you have cavities or a buildup of plaque.
Laser treatment for gum disease is a new procedure for treating periodontal disease. Speak with your dentist to find out if laser treatment for gum disease is available. In any case, your dentist will determine if the method is right for you.
