Know Your Gum Disease Risk Factors
Gum disease can severely damage your smile and your health. Early stage gum disease, called gingivitis, is curable. But if gingivitis isn’t addressed, it can progress to more advanced phases in which you can only hope to alleviate the symptoms and repair the sometimes significant damage. As proponents of preventive care, Fairbanks AK dentists Dr. Fred Bast and Dr. John Bast believe in stopping gum disease before it starts. A big part of preventing gum disease is knowing — and avoiding — the risk factors that contribute to it.
Gum Disease Risk Factors
Brushing and flossing your teeth as directed by the dentist and visiting Bast Dental for six-month checkups and cleanings can put you ahead of the game when it comes to gum disease prevention. You can also make some lifestyle changes to lessen your gum disease risk, including the following:
Stop smoking. Tobacco users run a greater risk of developing gum disease than those who don’t smoke or use tobacco products. In fact, tobacco use is considered a leading risk factor for gum disease development. If you use tobacco, stop. If you don’t use it, don’t start.
Try not to stress. Easier said than done, we know! But lowering your stress level can reduce your risk of developing gum disease. When you’re stressed, your body has a hard time fighting off disease. This diminished resistance can let the bacteria that cause gum disease flourish.
Be aware of the side effects of medications. Anti-depressants and oral contraceptives can impact the health of your smile. So can certain heart medications. Ask your doctor if the medications you’re taking can increase your risk of gum disease, and always let us know of changes in your medical history or the medicines you’re taking when you visit our office.
Eat a healthy diet. You know that a nutritious diet is good for your body, but it can also benefit your smile. A healthy diet can contribute to a strong immune system, which is crucial to fight off disease of all kinds, including gum disease.
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Call our Fairbank dentist’s office today if you have questions or to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help.