You can prevent gum disease (gingivitis)

Good oral hygiene is the necessary first step to prevent gingivitis because it removes the plaque that causes the disorder. The teeth should be brushed at least twice daily and flossed gently at least once per day. For people who are prone to gingivitis, brushing and flossing may be recommended after every meal and at bedtime. Consult the dentist or dental hygienist for instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques.

Special appliances or tools may be recommended by the dentist for use by people who are particularly prone to plaque deposits. The use of supplements does not replace thorough brushing and flossing. Appliances and tools may include special toothpicks, toothbrushes, water irrigation, or other devices.

Antiplaque or antitartar toothpastes or mouth rinses may be recommended by the dentist or dental hygienist.

Regular professional tooth cleaning is important to remove plaque that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing. Many dentists recommend having the teeth professionally cleaned at least every 6 months.

Some more recommendations

Brushing your teeth daily with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide is a good start.  Green tea, aloe vera, lactoferrin, xylitol, and folic acid, also help optimize oral health by targeting plaque-causing bacteria and supporting gum health.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) shows particular promise in offsetting the inflammation that accompanies gum disease.  CoQ10 offers benefits both when applied topically to the gums and when consumed as a dietary supplement.  The benefits of supplemental CoQ10 begin at a daily dose of 50 mg.

Pomegranate helps preserve periodontal health by preventing the adherence of plaque-inducing bacteria to the teeth, by directly killing oral microorganisms, and by quieting inflammation in the gums.

Vitamins C and D may also promote healthy teeth and gums.

Floss regularly. Cleaning out any left-over food from between your teeth makes sure that none of it gets down into your gums.

Don’t smoke! Cigarettes and chewing tobacco cause mouth irritation and are very unhealthy for gums and teeth.

Resource Center:

• Kids Health.org
• Uncle Sam’s Medline Plus
• FDA’s Consumer Magazine

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