Imagine one day you wake up with a painful swelling in your gums, you can hardly eat, and brushing your teeth is difficult. What could have caused such intense discomfort? Our mouths are home to hundreds of different types of bacteria, many of which can cause gum diseases.
And when left untreated, gum diseases can lead to serious complications such as tooth loss, bad breath, and even systemic diseases. But the good news is that gum disease can be prevented with proper oral hygiene practices.
The health of your gums is important for overall oral hygiene and should not be overlooked. When it comes to protecting your teeth and gums, preventive care is key.
Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to prevent gum disease. Read on to learn about the best ways to keep your gums healthy and strong.
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene:
Plaque is the sticky layer of bacteria that builds up on your teeth and can easily lead to gum disease if left unchecked. The best way to prevent gum disease is through daily oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing can help to remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
Besides, you must also take care of your gums by using a toothbrush with soft bristles and avoiding hard scrubbing. Gum diseases are often caused due to improper brushing techniques or inadequate flossing. But what factors can damage your gums and make them more susceptible to gum diseases?
A condition known as receding gums can take place when the gum tissues around your teeth begin to draw away, resulting in more of your tooth root being revealed than usual. This is a common dental disease that should be taken seriously.
In a situation where your gums are receding, you must visit a dentist immediately and include extra measures into your oral hygiene routine to ensure they remain healthy.
We recommend receding gum treatment by the Dental Team for an effective and lasting solution. They specialize in extensive oral health services, including emergency care, teeth whitening treatments, cleanings, fillings, and many other procedures all over Ontario.
2. Stop smoking:
To reduce gum disease risk, quitting smoking or using other tobacco products is important. Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of gum diseases and other oral health problems, such as tooth decay and bad breath.
Smoking can also affect your ability to fight off infection, making it more difficult to heal from gum disease and other oral conditions. If you need assistance to quit smoking, your dentist or doctor can provide advice and resources.
3. Eat Healthily:
Eating a healthy diet is another way to reduce the risk of developing gum disease. A balanced diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help you maintain good physical and oral health.
You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods that can damage your teeth and gums. As a bonus, eating healthy can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important for overall health.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly:
Seeing your dentist for regular checkups is essential to keeping your gums healthy. During a dental exam, your dentist or hygienist will check for signs of gum diseases, such as bleeding and redness. If gum disease is detected, your dentist can provide treatment to help stop its progression.
Another reason it’s important to see your dentist regularly is that if you have gum disease, regular cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar build-up that can lead to gum disease.
5. Drink Plenty of Water:
Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria that can cause gum diseases. The American Dental Association recommends drinking fluoridated tap water to help protect your teeth from decay. In addition, water can help to cleanse your mouth of any food particles and other debris that can lead to gum disease.
Most importantly, drinking water after eating can reduce your mouth’s acidity and help prevent gum diseases. And if you can, brush your teeth after drinking sweetened beverages such as juice or soda to prevent the sugars from causing problems in your mouth. It can also help to rinse away any residue from the beverages.
6. Use Antiseptic Mouthwash:
Using an antiseptic mouthwash that contains ingredients such as chlorhexidine can help to reduce the bacteria in your mouth and prevent gum disease. Mouthwash should be used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute. Be sure to read the directions on the mouthwash label before using. As with any product, check with your dentist or doctor to ensure it is safe.
7. Stress Management:
Stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections and heal from trauma, such as gum disease. Taking care of yourself can help you keep your gums healthy. Stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and improve your overall health.
Also, be sure to get enough sleep and exercise regularly. These activities can help reduce stress and keep your body healthy overall.
8. Regular Exercise:
Exercising can help to reduce stress, boost your immune system, and improve overall health. Cardiovascular exercise helps keep your heart healthy and can also help reduce inflammation, which is a risk factor for gum diseases.
Aim to exercise at least 30 minutes per day for best results. Besides its physical benefits, exercise can also help to improve your mood and reduce stress.
9. Use an Electric Toothbrush:
Electric toothbrushes can be more effective than manual brushes in removing plaque and preventing gum diseases. The rotating bristles can help reach hard-to-reach places in your mouth and reduce the risk of irritating your gums.
Electric toothbrushes can also be easier to use, making it more likely that you will clean all areas of your mouth properly. Most importantly, electric toothbrushes can also be more fun to use!
10. Get Regular Dental Cleanings:
Regular dental cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar build-up that brushing and flossing can miss. During a professional dental cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will use special tools to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gum line. This can help to reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Furthermore, your dentist can check for any signs of gum diseases, such as bleeding and redness. If gum disease is detected, your dentist will provide treatment and advice on managing the condition.
Summary:
Caring for your gums is essential to keeping them healthy and preventing gum diseases. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and visiting your dentist can help maintain your gum health. In addition, using an antiseptic mouthwash and an electric toothbrush are other ways to keep your gums healthy.
Finally, regular exercise and reducing stress can help improve overall health and benefit your oral health. By following these tips, you can ensure that your gums remain healthy for years to come.
