How to Prevent Gum Disease

Dentist Serving Calgary, Cochrane, Airdrie and Nearby Areas of Alberta

Periodontal disease (also called gum disease) is caused by bacteria in your mouth. Without good oral hygiene, bacteria can build up and cause infection in your gums. By practicing good teeth cleaning habits, you may be able to prevent gum disease.

As an experienced dentist in Calgary, Dr. Gordon Chee regularly treats patients with gum disease. We can help you get your oral health back on track and halt the progression of gum disease. For information about gum therapy options in Alberta, please call 403-543-4600 today.

Tops Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

To prevent gum disease:

Floss. Flossing is one of the most important ways to prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay. Plaque forms in between your teeth and on the gums hugging your teeth. Flossing is the most effective way to combat this plaque, which can't be reached with the bristles of your toothbrush.

Don't smoke. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease.

Brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal is critical to oral health. Together, brushing and flossing can fight plaque and effectively prevent gingivitis – the beginning stage of gum disease.

Visit the dentist. A visit to the dentist can prevent gum disease in two ways: Your teeth cleaning removes hardened plaque that can cause gum disease. Also, during your exam, our dentist will look for signs of early gum infection so it can be stopped before it worsens.

Our dentist can perform scaling and root planing, which is a more intensive cleaning for infected gums.

When you visit our dental practice, our dentist can give you individualized pointers for avoiding oral health problems. Everyone's dental needs are a little different, and we'll help you adopt an oral hygiene routine that works for you.

Gum Disease Risk Factors

There are certain risk factors that can make you more vulnerable to gum infection:

  • Smoking
  • Certain diseases, including diabetes
  • Certain medications
  • Hormonal changes
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Dry mouth

Some of these risk factors may be out of your control, but Dr. Gordon Chee and our team are committed to achieving your best oral health and we'll help you develop treatment planning that's right for you. If you want to speak to an experienced dentist in Calgary about gum disease and your oral health, please contact the Aesthetic Dental Studio online or call 403-543-4600 to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Chee.