The following steps can help reduce your risk of developing
periodontal disease: - Stop smoking. - Eat nutritiously. -
Follow good dental self-care practices. - Get regular
professional dental care. A nutritious diet can help you fight
all forms of infection, including the kind that causes
periodontal disease. Ask your doctor whether you would benefit
from: - Working with a nutritionist - Taking vitamin supplements
(especially vitamin C ) Brush your teeth twice daily: - Use an
end-rounded, soft-bristled toothbrush. - If you have trouble
managing with a manual toothbrush, consider using an electric
toothbrush. - Brush first with a dry brush; follow this by
brushing with toothpaste. - Dry brushing should take about 90
seconds. - Brushing with toothpaste should take about 30
seconds. - Use a toothpaste containing fluoride. - Hold your
brush at a 45° angle with the bristles toward the gum. - Brush
every tooth surface and along the gum line, using small,
circular motions. - Clean between your teeth once each day,