Gum disease is extremely common; roughly half of the adults in the United States have it in some form. Left untreated, it can lead to devastating oral and overall health problems, including tooth loss, cardiovascular issues, dementia, and more. Fortunately, gum disease is not a foregone conclusion for most people. In fact, there are concrete steps you can take to protect your mouth from this serious problem. Here are some tips from your dentist to help you maintain a healthy, disease-free smile.
Make Oral Hygiene a Priority
Gum disease occurs when bacteria infect the gum tissue, leading to inflammation. The best way to fight gum disease, therefore, is to fight the bacteria that cause it. You can do that via a thorough oral hygiene routine that includes twice-day brushing, once-daily flossing, and the use of an antimicrobial mouthwash. When you’re cleaning your mouth, be sure to brush along the gum line on both the fronts and backs of your teeth. When you floss, gently slide the floss between each tooth and the gums.
Visit Your Dentist
Everyone should visit their dentist every twice a year for a routine checkup and cleaning. The cleaning will vanquish bacteria-filled plaque and tartar, and the exam will alert you to any burgeoning issues with your oral health. For example, if your dentist notices that you’re showing early signs of gum disease, a few simple changes to your oral hygiene routine might be enough to stop or even reverse the problem before it reaches its advanced stages.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet that contains a lot of sugar can quickly erode your teeth and promote bacterial accumulation in your mouth. Therefore, you should always enjoy sweet treats in moderation and be sure to brush your teeth about 30 – 60 minutes after you finish your sugary food or beverage.
You should also eat foods that promote gum health. For example, green tea is full of healthy catechins and has been shown to be inversely connected with gum disease. Leafy greens, onions, apples, and garlic are other foods that may help prevent gum disease.
Keep a Moist Mouth
Sipping water will help to rinse harmful bacteria and food particles out of your mouth. Staying hydrated also promotes saliva production, and saliva is one of your body’s primary defenses bacteria that might otherwise accumulate along the gum line. Another way to keep a moist mouth is via chewing gum. Pop in a piece of sugar-free gum after each meal to encourage saliva production.
Are you doing all you can to prevent gum disease? Use the above tips protect your mouth from this serious condition.
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Griffith is a general dentist with more than 25 years of experience in his field. He provides comfortable, compassionate care to residents of Prestonsburg and the surrounding areas. In addition to offering preventive services that stop gum disease before it starts, he also provides periodontal therapy to help patients who are already showing signs of gum problems. If you would like his help to maintain or achieve a healthy mouth, contact our office today at 606-874-9311.