Periodontal disease is a serious matter, whether it's in the early stages of gingivitis or in the later stages of full blown periodontitis. Generally speaking, both are gum disease. They are caused when bacteria get into the pockets between your gums and teeth, forming hard plaque buildup that later leads to gum and bone loss. The following are three things that increase your chances of developing a form of gum disease, along with what you can do to prevent it.

#1: Smoking

Smoking and the use of other tobacco products can increase your chances of gum diseases. There are several reasons for this. First and foremost, nicotine causes constricted blood flow and poor circulation. This in turn slows down your healing and infection fighting abilities, which affects your bodies natural defenses against plaque-causing bacteria. Furthermore, the residue nicotine leaves on your teeth can create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which also increases the chances of developing gum disease. Careful attention to dental hygiene under the watchful eye of your dentist can help slow the development of gum disease, but the better option is to stop nicotine usage. There are non-oral quit aids, like patches, that can help you stop nicotine without further damaging your teeth.

#2: Not flossing

The purpose of flossing is often misunderstood. It isn't just to remove the food stuck between the teeth, but to remove food residue that gets lodged just beneath the gum line. That is because this is the area where gum disease begins. When you floss, you should pass the floss along the surface both teeth where they abut each other. The floss will slip painlessly under the gum line, lifting out debris. Flossing only needs to be done once daily to be effective. Combine flossing with the use of a water pick and a sonic electric toothbrush to full ensure all debris is removed at the gum line.

#3: Skipping regular cleanings

No matter how exacting you are with your home dental hygiene routine, you likely won't be able to remove all the plaque that builds up. This is why you need to visit your family dentist regularly for a full cleaning. Those with healthy mouths free of gum disease generally only need to go in for a cleaning once or twice a year. If you have early or advanced periodontal disease, then you will need more frequent cleanings in order to manage the disease.

For more help, contact a dental office in your area.