Gum disease is one of the most common reasons adults lose teeth, and early stages often don’t hurt. The good news: it is largely preventable.
Warning signs
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from teeth, or teeth that feel loose
Daily habits
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft brush, angled toward the gumline.
- Clean between teeth once a day – floss, picks or a water flosser.
- Don’t smoke or vape; tobacco is a major risk factor.
- Manage diabetes and other health conditions with your doctor.
Professional care
Regular cleanings remove hardened tartar that brushing can’t. If pockets have formed, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) or refer you to a periodontist.