The American Dental Association, ADA, found that bacteria in the mouth can start causing gum disease in only 24 hours; so regular, thorough cleaning is imperative. The first, and most important, step is to take excellent care of your teeth– brush twice a day, floss daily, and see us at the interval determined by your dentist and hygienist for professional cleaning for your individual needs.
Next, eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet is good for your gums and the rest of your body. Choose a wide variety of foods, including bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, lean meat, poultry and fish. Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are good for your teeth. You need to limit between-meal snacks.
Finally, do not smoke! Cigarettes and chewing tobacco cause mouth irritation and are very unhealthy for your teeth and gums. According to the ADA, people who smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco are more likely to have plaque and tartar buildup. Smokers are more likely to show signs of advanced gum disease and to develop mouth cancer in the future.