The following steps can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease:

]]> Stop Smoking

Smoking]]> is a major risk factor for the development of periodontal disease. Talk to your doctor about programs and aids to help you ]]>kick this habit]]> .

]]> Eat Nutritiously

A nutritious diet]]> can help you fight all forms of infection, including the kind that causes periodontal disease. Ask your doctor whether you would benefit from:

  • Working with a nutritionist
  • Taking vitamin supplements (especially ]]>vitamin C]]>)

Follow Good Dental Self-care Practices

  • Brush your teeth twice daily:
    • Use an end-rounded, soft-bristled toothbrush.
    • If you have trouble managing with a manual toothbrush, consider using an electric toothbrush.
    • Brush first with a dry brush; follow this by brushing with toothpaste.
    • Dry brushing should take about 90 seconds.
    • Brushing with toothpaste should take about 30 seconds.
    • Use a toothpaste containing fluoride.
    • Hold your brush at a 45° angle with the bristles toward the gum.
    • Brush every tooth surface and along the gum line, using small, circular motions.
  • Clean between your teeth once each day, using either floss or another cleaning aid prescribed by your dentist
  • Ask your dentist if you would benefit from a fluoride mouth rinse.

Get Regular Professional Dental Care

You should see your dentist every six months for a careful cleaning and for a thorough dental checkup. Furthermore, if you’ve already been diagnosed with periodontal disease, you should have a more thorough cleaning every three months.