Dr. Vincent M. Foring, D.M.D.

There is soft build up that accumulates on your teeth called plaque. This soft build up if not removed will turn into calculus. If this is not removed bacteria will start to migrate under the gums. Your body then tries to remove the bacteria but is unable to which results in bone loss. Certain factors can make it easier for periodontal disease to form, and the specific mixture of bacteria that inhabit your mouth can allow for periodontal disease to take hold more easily. Some people even build up plaque and calculus at faster rates. Brushing and flossing alone may not remove these build ups especially in back teeth where our brushing skills tend to fall off. This is why regular dental cleanings are extremely important and if your teeth are being cleaned in 10-15 minutes then you are likely not receiving the level of care you deserve. But also keep in mind how we brush and floss is extremely important. Angling the brush into the gums where the gums meet the teeth so the bristles clean the crevice where tooth and gum meet is important. And when flossing you need to pull the floss around the tooth and move in and under the gum space within reason don't hurt yourself. Simple snapping the floss down and out will not clean the teeth properly. Doing these things will prevent you from having periodontal issues whether your family has had periodontal disease or not. Also if you want to keep your teeth, don't smoke!