Effective Strategies for Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is one of the most prevalent oral infections. It is also one of the most common reasons why many adults lose their teeth.
This is primarily because the initial stages of gum disease usually do not have many obvious signs or symptoms. As a result, many individuals are unable to recognize the conditions until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Bleeding, painful and inflamed gums, loose teeth, and bad breath are all common indicators of gum disease.
If left untreated, it can become highly problematic and painful. Hence, it is important to know what to do to prevent gum disease. Let’s have a look!
Practicing good oral hygiene
Merely brushing your teeth does not suffice if you want to keep gum disease away. It is important to have a solid daily routine that includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
Ideally, you should brush your teeth after consuming each meal. If not, then at least twice a day is a must! It is vital to choose a toothbrush that fits well in the mouth and has the right bristle strength. Your dentist can help you find the best brush according to your size, age, and tooth condition. They may also suggest using an electric toothbrush or a water flosser for better cleaning.
If you find flossing difficult, there are other handy tools like water or air flossers, floss picks, and interproximal brushes that can make it easy to clean between the teeth. It is all about finding a good routine that you can stick with.
Moreover, mouthwash can also be a helpful part of your daily oral care. When getting a mouth rinse, choose an alcohol-free rinse, as alcohol can dry out the mouth. It is also important to opt for a rinse that can effectively fight plaque while retaining the enamel and maintaining your teeth’ health.
Eating a balanced diet
While you may not think much of it, a balanced diet is great for your smile and your overall health. Try to avoid sugary foods or drinks as they are a major cause of tooth decay. The bacteria in the plaque thrive on sugar and carbs and produce acids that can be very harmful to the teeth and gums.
Try to make mindful choices when you purchase food. Look at the nutritional information on the packaging. A few products may be labeled as healthy- however, when you read closely, you may find they have a lot of sugar and are not a good option if you are being careful about your oral health and overall well-being.
Getting more Vitamin C
You may be surprised to know but getting sufficient vitamin C is vital for your gum health. A lack of vitamin C can lead to gum disease, which in turn causes issues like swelling and bleeding in the gums. To help prevent this, try to eat more foods that are rich in vitamin C. These include strawberries, oranges, and kiwis.
If you find it hard to get enough vitamin C from your diet, you may want to consider taking vitamin C supplements. This vitamin has great healing properties that can help reduce those pesky symptoms of gum diseases. Hence, when you boost your vitamin C intake, you can strengthen your gums and make them less prone to problems. So go ahead and add some delicious and vitamin-packed fruits to your meals and enjoy healthier gums.
Staying hydrated
Did you know that saliva is one of the best natural defenses against dental plaque? When you eat, your body makes more saliva to help wash and remove any food bits or plaque. So, if you want to keep your smile healthy, make sure to drink plenty of water during the day.
It is pertinent to mention that some drinks, like alcohol or coffee, can dehydrate you. Hence, it is best to limit those!
Getting regular dental cleaning
Dentists can detect gum disease symptoms at an early stage, which is why it is important to see them regularly. That way, you can ensure that your symptoms can be treated before they get more serious.
Remember, the only way to remove tartar effectively is to get a professional dental cleaning. It also helps in getting rid of any plaque that you miss out on while brushing or even when you have flossed.
Also, in case of gingivitis, regular dental cleanings and brushing and flossing can help reverse the condition.
Final thoughts
Gum disease is quite common, but learning more about it can lead to better health outcomes.
Taking preventive steps, like maintaining good daily oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups, can help prevent gum disease in the early stages. If you want to improve your dental health, it is also a good idea to reach out to a dentist to schedule a consultation.