Provided that you take care, your teeth and gums retain their shine and stay healthy throughout your life. Brush your teeth twice a day, using dental floss once a day and see your dentist regularly to enjoy optimal oral health.

The goal is to reduce inflammation. The teeth are cleaned thoroughly by the dentist or dental hygienist. This may involve various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth.

Gingivitis can be prevented through regular oral hygiene that includes daily brushing and flossing. Mouth wash is optional, usually using a saline solution (water and salt) or chlorhexidine. Rigorous plaque control programs along with periodontal scaling and curettage also have proved to be helpful.

Researchers analyzed government data on calcium consumption and periodontal disease indicators in nearly 13,000 people representing U.S. adults. They found that men and women who had calcium intakes of fewer than 500 milligrams, or about half the recommended dietary allowance, were almost twice as likely to have gum disease, as measured by the loss of attachment of the gums from the teeth. The association was particularly evident for people in their 20s and 30s.

Research says the relationship between calcium and gum disease is likely due to calcium’s role in building density in the alveolar bone that supports the teeth.