How To Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease can sneak up on you. It starts small, with red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Over time, it gets worse. Gums pull away from teeth, making space for bacteria to grow. Bone and tissue holding teeth in place are destroyed. Teeth become loose and may fall out.
The good news is gum disease is preventable. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you can keep that beautiful smile for life. Dr. Thomas Kauffman, a top dentist in Downtown Atlanta, GA, teaches his patients how to fight gum disease every day. Call (404) 524-1981 to schedule your appointment with our experienced Atlanta dentist.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup requires professional removal, creating pockets within the gums that harbor bacteria. As plaque and tartar increase, bacteria cause swelling, bleeding, and damage to gums and bone.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: This milder form makes gums red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Caught early, gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene.
- Periodontitis: When gingivitis is ignored, it advances into this serious stage. Gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets where bacteria grow. Bone and connective tissue break down, teeth loosen, and tooth loss occurs.
Gum Disease Risk Factors
Some people with certain risk factors are more likely to get gum disease, including those who:
- Smoke or chew tobacco
- Have diabetes
- Take certain medications
- Are genetically predisposed
- Don’t brush and floss regularly
- Don’t get professional cleanings
Signs You May Have Gum Disease
Look for:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or separating teeth
- Changes in bite pattern
- Pus between gums and teeth
Preventing Gum Disease
The key to preventing gum disease is removing plaque before it becomes tartar. Dr. Kauffman recommends:
- Brushing twice daily for two minutes each time
- Flossing once daily
- Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse
- Getting professional cleanings every six months
- Avoiding smoking and chewing tobacco products
For brushing, use a soft-bristle toothbrush with gentle circular motions on all tooth surfaces. Tilt the brush at a 45-degree angle at the gumline.
When flossing, take 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around your middle fingers. Guide the floss between teeth in a C-shape, gently moving up and down against one tooth. Curve the floss into the other tooth forming another C-shape and repeat.
Gum-Healthy Diet
Just like the rest of your body, your gums need nutrients like:
- Vitamin C (from citrus, tomatoes, broccoli)
- Vitamin D (milk, eggs, fish, sunlight)
- Calcium (dairy, leafy greens, beans)
- Antioxidants (berries, nuts, green tea)
Eating a balanced diet gives your body the tools to fight infection and rebuild tissues.
Treatment from Dr. Kauffman
If you already have gum disease, don’t panic! Dr. Kauffman can recommend or perform the following gum disease treatments:
- Professional cleanings to remove tartar
- Scaling and root planing to smooth root surfaces
- Antibiotic therapy to control infection
- Gum surgery to eliminate deep pockets
Create Excellent Oral Health With Dr. Thomas Kauffman
Avoiding the dentist won’t make gum disease disappear — gum problems only worsen over time. By coming to Dr. Kauffman’s downtown Atlanta dental office, you can get an accurate diagnosis, start treatment immediately, learn the best home techniques, and stop bone and tooth loss.
Dr. Kauffman is here to help you keep your smile healthy for decades. Schedule your consultation by calling (404) 524-1981 today.