Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile because they protect your teeth. When bacteria-causing plaque and tartar infect or irritate the gums, it can cause serious complications. Gingivitis and periodontitis (stages of gum disease) can all raise the chance of developing other major health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Gum disease can potentially raise the risk of preterm delivery in pregnant women.
Gum disease is a serious inflammatory disorder that can endanger the health of the gums, bones, and teeth. It causes pockets and/or gaps to develop between the gums and the particular tooth. If not treated and avoided, this condition can cause tooth loosening or loss. In this article, we have gathered six effective tips on how to prevent gum disease.
1. Maintain proper oral hygiene
Brushing your gums and teeth after each meal is the greatest approach to care for your teeth. Remove the food particles while being gentle on your enamel. Dental floss may get into places of your mouth that a toothbrush can’t.
Before brushing, use floss to go in between your teeth so that any food you pull out may be cleaned up by your toothbrush. While you should not rely only on mouthwash to eliminate bacteria, many mouthwash solutions are effective. Consult a dentist for recommendations, since some products are superior to others.
2. Undergo regular dental cleanings
Only professional teeth cleaning procedures can help you get rid of tartar which increases your risk of gum disease. It can also remove any plaque that you missed when brushing or flossing. If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, they can discover early signs of gum disease. This allows symptoms to be addressed before they worsen.
3. Eat more healthy foods
Red, green, and white onions all have antimicrobial qualities. These characteristics can help preserve your gums, so include more of them in your diet. According to one study, onions can even suppress E. coli and Salmonella. Dark leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, should also be included in your diet. These are high in Vitamin C, which aids in the reduction of inflammation. This anti-inflammatory impact may reduce the susceptibility of your gums to swelling and infection.
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, should also be on your shopping list. They include casein, a protein that can greatly prevent tissue loss. It also prevents dental enamel erosion, which can lead to tooth weakness.
4. Discuss your medications with your doctor
It may be worthwhile to discuss the adverse effects of any medications you are taking with your doctor. Some medicines cause bacteria to accumulate in the mouth or interfere with saliva production which prevents bacteria from settling. Hormones can also affect dental health. You may be experiencing dental sensitivity and fostering the development of gum disease if you are going through hormonal imbalance.
5. At the first sign of wear, replace your toothbrush
A toothbrush should be replaced after about 3 to 4 months of use. This update is required so that the bristles do not fray and cause gum damage. Damaged or frayed toothbrushes will also fail to efficiently clean your teeth.
As a result, the harm caused by a worn-out toothbrush is doubled: inadequate tooth cleaning and the possibility of gum injury. To care for your toothbrush, clean it well after use and keep it in a place where it can dry fast.
6. Quit smoking
Smoking not only makes your teeth look yellow, but it also raises your chance of developing gum disease. It lowers your immune defenses, which leaves your gums more vulnerable to damaging plaque bacteria. Dentists advise patients to quit smoking as soon as possible to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
