Maintaining Periodontal Health: Everyday Habits for a Healthy Smile

At Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry in Topeka, KS, Dr. Andrew Lewis, DDS, and Dr. Ted A. Jowett, DDS, emphasize the importance of maintaining periodontal health for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Periodontal health, focusing on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, is vital for overall oral wellness. Here, we explore everyday habits that can significantly impact the health of your gums.

Understanding Periodontal Health

Periodontal health revolves around preventing and managing conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis – forms of gum disease. These conditions, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues.

Daily Habits for Healthy Gums

  1. Regular Brushing: Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque, the primary cause of gum disease.
  2. Flossing Daily: Flossing once a day is crucial for removing plaque and food particles between teeth and below the gumline.
  3. Using Therapeutic Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis.

The Role of Diet in Periodontal Health

A balanced diet, low in sugar and rich in essential nutrients, supports healthy gums. Foods high in vitamin C and calcium are particularly beneficial for gum health.

Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups

Routine Dental Exams and Cleaning play a pivotal role in maintaining periodontal health. These visits allow for the early detection and treatment of gum disease and provide an opportunity for professional cleaning to remove tartar, which cannot be eliminated by brushing alone.

Advanced Care for Gum Health

For patients showing signs of gum disease, we offer specialized Periodontal Treatments. These treatments are designed to thoroughly clean the pockets around teeth and prevent damage to surrounding bone.

Smoking Cessation

Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. Quitting smoking can drastically improve periodontal health and is strongly advised for anyone concerned about their oral health.

Managing Stress

Stress can negatively impact oral health, including the health of your gums, by making it harder for the body to fight off infection. Managing stress through healthy activities like exercise or meditation can benefit your periodontal health.

A Commitment to Periodontal Health

Maintaining healthy gums is essential for overall oral health. At Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry, Dr. Andrew Lewis and Dr. Ted A. Jowett are committed to guiding their patients in Topeka, KS, through effective daily routines and providing professional care to ensure long-lasting periodontal health.

References:

  1. American Dental Association – Tips for healthy gums.
  2. Journal of Periodontology – The importance of periodontal health.
  3. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research – Strategies for oral disease prevention.

For more personalized advice on maintaining periodontal health or to schedule a check-up, call 785-272-3864 or visit our website.