Is there any way to prevent gum disease?

my dentist said if i dont take better care of my teeth then ill get gum disease. Do you guys have any helpful advice?

here are the steps:

1. brush after every meal. this isn't nearly as effective, but if you truly can't brush, chew sugarless gum. if you can't chew sugarless gum, then at the very minimum, swish some water around in your mouth.

* always use a soft toothbrush, as opposed to medium or hard. soft is just as effective as the others, but gentle on teeth & gums.

**please note -- it's best NOT to use a specific tartar-controlling toothpaste. these toothpastes can actually be abrasive if you scrub too hard, and damage tooth enamel and gums. something basic like plain old Colgate, or even a basic natural toothpaste, like Tom's of Maine (i use their "Sensitive" Wintermint flavor) is just fine.

2. floss at least once a day (i do it at night, while watching TV or something; it gets to be a habit and after a while you feel gross if you DON'T do it! :) ). carry floss with you when in public, so you can floss if you feel you need to.

3. you can use a mouthwash, but the ones filled with alcohol (like Listerine, Scope, etc.) are pretty strong. i don't personally like them.

4. cut down on refined sweets. not only do they provide nesting grounds for bacteria (and later, plaque), but sugar triggers inflammation responses in the body, which can contribute to the swelling associated with gum disease.

5. ask your dentist if there are signs that you grind or clench your teeth at night. i had no idea until about two years ago, that that was a huge culprit in my gum problems. my dentist fitted me with a night guard, which i wear every night now, and (along with excellent hygiene) it's helped tremendously.

definitely brush and floss everyday.

You can prevent gum disease with proper brushing, and flossing daily.

Brush your teeth twice a day and Even your gums and your tongue.Rinse your Mouth out with Listerine twice a day.

Make sure you brush your teeth everyday at least twice. Use a toothpaste that has tartar fighting and plaque preventing power. Also, floss, floss, floss! Mouthwash is very helpful as well. The listerine burns but it kills all those germs in your mouth that create bad breath and gingivitis! Happy Smiling!

yeah, brush your twice a day and floss them on a regular basis