Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is often a silent menace to your oral health. It can progress with few, if any, symptoms, and by the time you know it directly, it may be advanced and cause other problems like bite misalignments and tooth loss.
The best defense against gum disease starts with your regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleanings with one of our excellent dental hygienists. But what you do at home also matters. We recommend you brush twice daily and floss every evening. It's especially vital that you brush before you go to bed.
During sleep, germs thrive as your mouth tends to be drier, and because you go hours during sleep without drinking water, you cannot benefit from how it rinses away disease-causing bacteria. Our hygienists will be happy to show you good brushing and flossing techniques.
Other Ways to Prevent Gum Disease in O'Fallon, IL
Dr. Schillinger and his team can offer several other steps to prevent gum disease. Among these are:
- Avoid tobacco use; smoking and chewing are bad for your gums
- Eat a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Minimize sugary snacks and always drink water to rinse away accumulations
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash, especially after brushing and flossing before bed
- If you have a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, your gums may need extra attention
- Always share changes you notice with your dental team during your checkups
The best news about gum disease is that if we catch it early enough, its effects are entirely reversible.