Preventative Education

At Viva Dental Victoria, our goal is to help you keep your teeth for life!  Your dentist and dental hygienist are here to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to maintain or improve your oral health between visits.

It is important to be aware of the state of your teeth, gums, tongue, and other areas of your mouth so that disease can be identified and treated early.

Taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

Luckily, periodontal disease is usually preventable with regular visits to the dentist and good daily oral hygiene practices. Adding these habits to your daily routine will help you to protect your oral health.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush using fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily
• Use a tongue scraper to remove excess bacteria from the back of your tongue
• Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing
• Eliminate tobacco use and decrease alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of oral cancers, periodontal disease and tooth loss
• Eat a healthy diet and limit food with added sugars
• Eat fruits and vegetables that protect against oral cancer
• Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn
• Fluoride can help prevent dental cavities and can be obtained from fluoridated drinking water, salt, milk and toothpaste, as well as from professionally applied fluoride and mouth rinses
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Know your risk. Age, smoking, diet and genetics can all increase your risk for periodontal disease

High cost of dental treatment can be minimized by effective

 prevention and health promotion measures

Age



Studies indicate that older people have the highest rates of periodontal disease. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have periodontitis.





Smoking and tobacco use



Tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease, as well as numerous other health problems. Tobacco users also are at increased risk for periodontal disease. Studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease.





Genetics



Research has indicated that some people may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be more likely to develop periodontal disease. Identifying these people with a genetic test before they even show signs of disease and getting them into early intervention treatment may help them keep their teeth for a lifetime.





Stress



Stress is linked to many serious conditions such as hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. Stress also is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.





Medications



Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and certain heart medicines, can affect your oral health. Just as you notify your pharmacist and other health care providers of all medicines you are taking and any changes in your overall health, you should also inform your dental care provider.





Clenching or grinding your teeth



Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these periodontal tissues are destroyed.





Other systemic diseases



Other systemic diseases that interfere with the body's inflammatory system may worsen the condition of the gums. These include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.





Poor nutrition and obesity



A diet low in important nutrients can compromise the body's immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection. Because periodontal disease begins as an infection, poor nutrition can worsen the condition of your gums. In addition, research has shown that obesity may increase the risk of periodontal disease.

ed prior to your appointment.