Tips to Avoid Gum Disease 

Gum Disease is known to be the most prevalent dental disease among adults and children. The cases of Gum Disease are on the rise, with estimates now showing that 8 out of 10 people over the age of 35 will suffer from some form of it. There is further cause for concern, as there is now, evidence of links between serious health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and gum disease. It is most important to want to prevent gum disease if you do suffer from it and get it treated properly. It is a very preventable disease once treated properly. When it comes to your mouth health it is not all about having pearly white teeth are and how straight your teeth may be, it is important not to forget about your gums. For some people, gum disease can be hereditary or it can be due to some medications that you may be on so it may not be entirely avoidable, however, there are ways to regularly manage your gums.

Here are some easy Tips to avoid Gum Disease 

What is Gum Disease

Gum Disease usually starts when bacteria in plaque buildup under and along the gum line and teeth. The bacteria that are present begin to grow causing the gums to become inflamed. Plaque is a sticky film like substance that is filled with bacteria. The early stage of gum disease is Gingivitis. This can cause the gums to become inflamed, red, swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding. The most advanced form of gum disease is Periodontal Disease. If left untreated, it can impact the bones that hold your teeth in place. It can ruin the gums, tissues, and bones. If you have hit the advanced stages of periodontal disease, this is where the bone and fibres surrounding your teeth can become destroyed. Gum disease is majorly preventable and here are the following tips to do so.

• Oral Hygiene is very important 

The first step to prevent gum disease is brushing and cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly. It is recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day morning and night time for at least two to three minutes each time preferably after you eat. Brushing after meals help remove plaque and any food that may be trapped between the gums and teeth. Bacteria can harbour so scrubbing your tongue is very important too.

• Floss every day 

Flossing and brushing should go hand in hand, yet a lot of people forget about it. Flossing should be done at least once a day. It doesn’t matter when you floss but it is highly important to do so in your teeth hygiene care routine. Flossing helps remove food and plaque in the spaces between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach. Here is a handy short video which will help you perfect your flossing.

• Use Mouthwash

To boost your oral hygiene routine, add an anti-bacterial mouthwash which can be purchased over the counter in many stores. Rinse your mouth around with mouthwash it can help reduce plaque, reduce the speed that tarter develops, and prevent or reduce gingivitis.

• Get your teeth cleaned with your dentist regularly 

It is highly important to visit your dentist for a checkup and have regular teeth cleaning every few months. Your dentist can detect whether you have early stages of gum disease. If you have any symptoms they can be treated before they become more serious. Dental cleaning can remove tartar build up that you will not be able to remove at home.

• Eat a healthier diet with more fruit and vegetables

To ensure your gum tissue is healthy make sure your diet is full of rich vitamin C foods. Increase your vegetable intake over fruit more so. Starch and sugary foods should be cut down as they can increase plaque forming. It can also lead to tooth decay. Sugar can react with the bacteria in your saliva which can form an acid that will erode the teeth enamel.

• Avoid smoking 

This is yet another reason for people to give up smoking. Smoking has shown a strong association with the onset of gum disease. The blood supply to the gums is reduced due to smoking, so a smoker, in general, may notice gum issues before any early onset of gum disease. Smoking also weakens the immune system, in turn, making it more difficult to fight off a gum infection. If your gums are damaged and you smoke it makes it very difficult for them to heal. Smoking also contributes to the yellow stains that appear on teeth.

• Fluoride Toothpaste should be used 

When brushing your teeth, it is best if you choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and also has the ADA seal of acceptance. Fluoride can help strengthen the tooth enamel to combat tooth decay.

• Know certain medications

Some medication is shown to aggravate the gum disease some including heart medicines, oral contraceptives, and anti-depressants.

It is important not to neglect and ignore your gums and teeth. If you are experiencing pain, redness, bleeding, or any kind of issues with your gums you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. Deep cleaning may be required. Schedule an appointment with your dentist and they will advise you on all mouth health checkups. Remember having a weekly hygiene routine at home will save your gums and teeth in the long term.