8 Easy Ways To Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common condition that occurs when gum tissues become infected by bacteria, causing swelling, inflammation, and discomfort while chewing. Although gum disease is not common in children, the majority of adults have experienced issues with gum disease.

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, a common type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into a more severe condition known as periodontitis. If periodontitis remains untreated, it can seriously impair the function of the gums and teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.

There are many symptoms to look for that may indicate gum disease issues, including inflamed and bright red gums, constant bad breath, gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, swollen or puffy gums, painful chewing, and loose teeth.

Preventative Measures Of Gum Disease

1. Brush your teeth twice a day

Brush your teeth both in the morning and at night to remove plaque build-up that is incurred overnight and throughout the day.

Removing plaque build-up is an essential part of preventing gum disease. Plaque that remains on the teeth hardens into tartar which builds up between the tooth and the gum line harboring bacteria, leading to irritation and potential periodontal issues.

2. Use a soft-bristled brush and change it every three months

Soft-bristled brushes are gentle on teeth but effective at removing plaque build-up. They are also gentle on the gums and can remove bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach areas without causing further damage.

The bristles of a toothbrush tend to break down after prolonged use, and older brushes collect bacteria. Change your toothbrush every three months to ensure you are using a clean brush with working bristles.

3. Use mouthwash

An antibacterial mouthwash is an excellent addition to any daily dental routine. The anti-bacterial properties work to flush out any harmful bacteria that has been left after brushing.

4. Floss daily

Flossing daily is another essential part of your daily dental cleaning routine because it reaches and cleans crevices that a toothbrush cannot.

Plaque and tartar build-up in these crevices can cause tooth decay and gum disease around the gum line and between the teeth.

5. Scrape your tongue

Gently scraping your tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper is the most efficient way to remove the bacterium that builds up on the tongue. Always brush from the back of the tongue to the front for the best results.

Follow tongue scraping with a swish of antibacterial mouthwash to remove potentially harmful bacteria.

6. Stay away from sugary foods

Sugar responds negatively with the bacteria in your saliva and gums and erodes tooth enamel, which can cause inflammation and future periodontal issues.

7. Examine your teeth and gums frequently

Take note of your gums when you brush your teeth to check if they are red, inflamed, or bloody.

If you experience discomfort or sensitivity in your teeth or gums, consult with your Hygienist in Knutsford to ensure it is not a sign of a more serious periodontal issue.

8. Eat raw vegetables

Hard and fiber-filled foods, such as vegetables and some fruits, clean the teeth and gums and help prevent gum disease.

Why You Should Visit A Dentist To Avoid Gum Disease

Dental check-ups and deep cleanings are a vital part of tooth and gum health and should be scheduled every six months. Bi-annual dental cleanings eradicate the plaque and tartar build-up that cannot be removed with daily brushing. Many non-invasive dental treatments can significantly aid in maintaining gum health in the early stages of gum diseases.

Professional cleanings can reverse mild gum disease. Whereas, scaling and root planing are recommended for a deep cleaning to remove plaque from under the gumline and smooth the seal of the gum against the root of the tooth to ensure proper healing. Scaling and root planing can be used both as a measure of preventative dentistry or as a treatment for gum disease.

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Established in July 2018, Superior Smiles is your new private dentist in Knutsford, Cheshire, with extensive experience we offer wide range of dental treatments for all ages. Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.