Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis happen to be the most common dental concern of teenagers as well as adults around the world. Gingivitis is an acute condition that leads to inflammation of the gums. The gums appear swollen, red, and bleed while brushing or flossing.
The good news, gingivitis can be easily treated and is reversible. The bad news, gingivitis can progress to a severe, irreversible, and destructive form called periodontitis, if left untreated. Once periodontitis sets in, it destroys the underlying bone and leads to loose teeth. Eventually, the teeth will lose their support and fall off.
Missing teeth are the least of the concerns when comparing what the bacteria from the periodontal disease does to the rest of the body. Did you know bacteria that cause periodontal disease increases the risk of arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease, diabetes, cancers, obesity, heart attack, and stroke?
This was a brief about gum diseases, but did you know that there are simple things you can do to prevent such a situation from arising? Read ahead as we share our top tips on ways to prevent gum diseases.
Brush regularly
Ideally, dentists recommend you use a soft-bristled nylon toothbrush and a non-abrasive fluoridated toothpaste to clean your teeth. Ensure you cover all the teeth and surfaces, paying close attention to the back teeth as they are more prone to plaque accumulation. Brush twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed.
Make friends with the floss
Brushing is insufficient as it cannot reach the crevices and gaps between the teeth. This is where a string of dental floss comes to the rescue. Ideally, you should floss every day.
Take about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers. Next, slide the floss between two teeth and make a c shape as you go down and come up. Repeat the same for each surface.
Rinse your mouth
Some food debris and plaque can stay hidden; therefore, it is advisable that you rinse your mouth after every meal. Inculcate mouthwash in your regular oral hygiene routine.
Don’t forget the tongue
Many people with excellent oral hygiene suffer from gum diseases and dental cavities because they skip the tongue. Our tongue harbors millions of bacteria that are disease-causing. Get your hands on a tongue cleaner and ensure to clean your tongue every day for adequate prevention.
Control your sugar
High blood sugar, such as in the case of diabetes, makes you more susceptible to gum diseases. Therefore, proper treatment and keeping blood sugar level under control forms an integral part of good oral health.
In addition, eliminating sugar from your diet, even if you are in general in good health, will have added benefits on your oral health.
Get moving
Exercise is good for our overall health, and this stands true even for oral health. Endorphin release helps your body develop better immunity and fight off infections.
Veggies and Fruits
Add season fruits and vegetables to your diet. They provide you with balanced nutrition and also act as a natural cleaner which promotes better oral health and helps prevent gum diseases.
Schedule regular dental appointment
Ideally, you should schedule a dental check-up once every six months. This allows your doctor to examine your mouth and catch diseases in their earliest phase. Scheduled cleanings will help you keep gum diseases at bay.
If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our LiveHealthy Dental Family, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent dental professionals will be there to assist you in your journey to better oral health.
