Act to Avoid Gum Disease
You can reduce your risk for periodontal (gum) disease by practicing good oral health care at home. It’s important to brush gently, at least twice a day, with special attention to the gum line; floss at least once a day; and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.1,3
These things put you at high risk for gum disease:
1 “Disease, Gum (Diseases, Periodontal)” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/3063.aspx?currentTab=1 Accessed 2010.
2 “Periodontal (Gum) Disease.” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, January 2006. www.nidcr.nih.gov/NR/rdonlyres/1B30D2C4-4DBD-4400-B993-A18B58F22A97/0/Periodontal_spreads_Final.pdf Accessed 2010.
3 “For the Dental Patient: Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body.” Journal of the American Dental Association. 2006, vol. 137, no. 4, p. 563. http://www.ada.org/sections/scienceAndResearch/pdfs/patient_61.pdf Accessed 2010.
Online Editor:
Sims, Jane
Online Medical Reviewer:
Eakle, Stephan W., DDS
Online Medical Reviewer:
Fincannon, Joy, RN, MS
Date Last Reviewed:
12/8/2008
Date Last Modified:
1/7/2011
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