Tips for prevention of gum problems in San Francisco

Dr. Leo Arellano and his talented team are dedicated to helping people in San Francisco and across the Bay Area enjoy beautiful smiles and optimal oral health. The doctor provides a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services, but he believes prevention is the best treatment for any dental issue. Problems with gum health (periodontal disease) are a common concern across America. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that half of all people over 30 suffer from some stage of the disease. Good oral hygiene and healthy habits are essential to preventing gum disease.

Dr. Arellano offers some tips to help avoid gum problems:

• Diet – Reduce the frequency and quantity of sugary foods and beverages consumed, because sugar feeds the harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
• Tobacco – Research has found that tobacco use, both smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco, may play a role in more than 50 percent of the cases of chronic periodontal disease. Quitting can improve oral and overall health.
• Checkups – Periodontal disease is not obvious to the individual until it has reached the most advanced stages. Regular dental examinations can reveal the onset of the disease and allow it to be addressed promptly. Early treatment is more conservative and prevents further damage to the oral tissues.
• Oral hygiene – Effective oral hygiene is the first line of defense against periodontal disease.
  • Brush after meals and snacks. When it is not possible to brush, rinsing can remove a portion of the food particles and reduce bacteria by 30 percent.
  • Using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and brush debris away from the gums, making sure to brush every surface of every tooth.
  • If limited dexterity is a problem, an electric toothbrush may be beneficial.
  • Clean the tongue with a toothbrush or tongue scraper.
  • Rinse with a prescription chlorhexidrine mouthwash or Listerine twice a day.
  • Floss – Flossing daily is crucial to effective oral hygiene because a toothbrush cannot reach the areas between teeth.

Our office is conveniently located at 3030 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94118. Be proactive about oral health. Call 415-881-4343 and schedule an appointment today.