Reducing Your Risk of Periodontal Disease

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

• Follow good dental self-care practices.
• Get regular professional dental care.
• Stop smoking.
• Eat nutritiously.

• 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.
  • Use a toothpaste containing fluoride.
  • Hold your brush at a 45 degree 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.

You should see your dentist every 6 months for a careful cleaning and for a thorough dental checkup. If you have already been diagnosed with periodontal disease, you should schedule a cleaning every 3 months.

Smoking is a major risk factor for the development of periodontal disease. Talk to your doctor about programs and aids to help you stop smoking.

A nutritious diet can help you fight all forms of infection. It may also help you prevent foods that can be damaging or irritating to your teeth and gums. Ask your doctor whether you would benefit from working with a nutritionist.

Revision Information

• Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board
• Review Date: 02/2021
• Update Date: 04/06/2021