How to Prevent Gum Disease:

The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is with daily, thorough tooth brushing (link) and flossing (link) techniques and regular professional examinations and cleanings (link importance of regular cleanings).

Prevention is the first line of defense!

Unfortunately, even with the most diligent dental care, people can still develop periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progression to tooth loss.

Why are Professional Cleanings important?

Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental plaque and calculus (tartar) to a minimum, but a professional cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. In fact, brushing and flossing do not remove calculus. The only way to remove calculus is with a dental office cleaning. This is also called periodontal maintenance, periodontal cleanings, or periodontal recall and involve a more thorough cleaning than just a prophy or polish.

The frequency of cleanings is dependent on each patient. The quicker you build calculus, the greater the number of risk factors (smoking, diabetes, etc), the more frequently cleanings need to occur. Most patients with a history of periodontal disease need to be seen every 3 to 4 months for cleanings. We use a reminder system (link to sign up) to help you keep up with your appointment.

At least once per year, a periodic oral evaluation (POE) (an exam to check the health of your mouth and screen for cancer) with Drs. Godat and Craddock helps ensure your treatment is remaining stable. Visit Drs. Craddock and Godat and your dentist, as they are an important part of your program to prevent gum disease. Remember, we want to help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy for your lifetime.