General prevention tips:

Proper plaque control and good oral hygiene can many times prevent the kinds of tooth decay that leads to chronic changes in the inner structures of your tooth. Proper plaque control consists of professional cleanings at least twice a year, along with daily brushing and flossing. Brushing eliminates plaque from the surfaces of the teeth that can be reached; flossing removes food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gum line.

Regular dental visits are also important. Daily cleaning will help keep plaque formation to a minimum, but it won't completely prevent it. A professional cleaning at least twice a year is necessary to remove plaque from places your toothbrush and floss may have missed.

Other health and lifestyle changes that will decrease the risk, the severity, and the speed of gum disease development include:

• Smoking cessation.
• Stress reduction.
• Proper nutrition.