Periodontal Disease - Prevention

Here are some tips in choosing the right floss or flossing device:

Use a floss that does not shred or break.
Avoid a very thin floss, which can cut the gum if brought down with too much force or not guided along the side of the tooth.
People who have very tight spaces between their teeth should consider flosses that are made of Gore-Tex. This floss slips easily between tight teeth and will not tear on sharp edges. It does cost slightly more, however.
A floss threader is an invaluable aid for the person who has bridgework. Made of plastic, it looks like a needle with a huge eye, or loop. A piece of floss is threaded into the loop, which can then be inserted between the bridge and the gum. The floss that is carried through with it can then be used to clean underneath the false tooth or teeth and along the sides of the abutting teeth.
Another handy device for cleaning under bridges is a Proxabrush. This is a tiny narrow brush that can be worked in between the natural teeth and around the attached false tooth or teeth.
The Floss Plus easy flosser device is also effective and may make it easier for some people to floss.
Special toothpicks such as Stim-U-Dent may be effective for wide spaces between teeth but should never replace flossing. Standard toothpicks should never be used for regular hygiene.
Electronic products such as Oral B Innerclean and the Water Pik Flosser are as effective as manual flossing. These devices are expensive but may improve compliance.

Producing Saliva and Drinking Water. Saliva is important for diluting the toxins created by plaque. Of particular interest is a 2000 study on nitrite, a substance in saliva whose concentration increased after eating foods containing nitrates. Nitrite converts to the gas nitric oxide (NO), which, under acidic conditions, may prevent the growth and survival of bacteria involved in periodontal disease.

Drinking at least seven glasses of water a day helps reduce inflammation in the mouth by producing more saliva. Increasing water intake is particularly important as one ages, when less saliva is produced.