Gum disease is a life-ruiner dental disease. It could catch you off guard because it is sneaky and most of the time, painless! That is why dentists always remind to not just secure our teeth and mouth – but our gums as well.
Research shows done by dental school San Jose CA, gum disease is a condition when dental plaques start to build-up along the gum line. The sticky films are packed with bacteria that can hurt the gum and its bone which can develop into tooth decay and periodontal disorder or gum disease. Gingivitis is the early sign of gum disease. It causes gums to become tender, inflamed, red and deeply swollen. Moreover, gingivitis makes you prone to bleeding that when left neglected, this can progress to periodontitis – the advanced form of gum disease. Periodontitis affects the gums, bones and tissues that hold your teeth in place. This can ruin your bite and your teeth may be extracted.
There are different warning indicators of gum disorder. Common signs are consistently bad breath or taste and having red, swollen and bleeding gums. You may also be having this condition if you have loose permanent teeth or if gums have pulled away from teeth.
The good news is gum disease can be prevented through the help of your dentist and the following approaches:
- Floss daily. Since not all bacteria and debris can be removed by toothbrushes, dental floss can be of so much help. Flossing on a daily basis helps remove plaques and food particles that are on hard-to-reach areas. You can floss at day, night or even after meal. Regardless, dental floss definitely helps improve gum health.
- Go for professional dental cleanings. Dentists can detect early symptoms of gum disease. So if he schedules you for a dental cleaning, go for it. Your dentist may have found dental tartars that could lead to gingivitis. Professional dental cleanings can reverse gingivitis.
- Quit the bad habits. The best way to improve gum health is to ensure you don’t expose it from unhealthy oral habits, like excessive smoking and alcohol drinking. It has been proved that these two common vices can weaken oral health and cause gum disease outbreak. The earlier you quit on these, the higher chances of not developing such disease.
- Don’t forget to brush! Daily brushing can maximize your teeth cleaning routine. Plus, the soft bristles can remove bacteria residing on your tongue, too. When you brush, you can eliminate dental plaques and food debris trapped in between gums and teeth – which can simplify and reduce your work in flossing. If you are one of those who can’t brush well, consider an electric toothbrush.
- Make use of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a powerful substance that can promote healthier teeth and gums. It can reduce gingivitis and promote fresh breath and white teeth. However, make sure the chosen brand has the ADA seal of acceptance.
- Consider mouthwash. Mouthwash rinse off bacteria and any elements that can cause gum disease. The product becomes twice as effective when done with brushing and flossing.
When you feel gums are jeopardized by infection and it seems the aforementioned hacks aren’t enough, call and visit your dentist right away.