Do you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time? Do you visit your dentist once every six months and floss every day? There are a few other things you can consider doing to improve your oral health, such as using mouthwash, but did you know that there is something you can do specifically to protect your tongue?

Preventing gum disease starts with preventing plaque buildup. As plaque begins to form around our teeth, the linings of our tissue can decay away leading to gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal gum disease, and if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is the leading form of tooth loss in adults, so we must be aware of the risk factors that can increase the likelihood of it taking hold. Here are some of the risks to watch out for: