The most important action a person can take to prevent and treat gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. When it comes to oral health, most people overlook their gums to achieve a bright, white smile. On the other hand, in order to have healthy teeth, one must also have healthy gums. Overall, teeth health has benefits of good dental health as it can be highly beneficial and lead a healthy lifestyle.
What is referred to as gum disease?
When plaque accumulates beneath and along the gum line, gum disease develops. Plaque is a bacteria-filled sticky film-like substance. It can cause infections that damage the gums and bones, resulting in gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque can also contribute to gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. Your gums become inflamed as a result of gingivitis.
- Inflamed, tender, red, swollen, and bleeding
Fortunately, this damage is reversible because the bone and tissue that holds the teeth in place are unaffected.
Here are a couple of tips that you can follow to maintain healthy teeth and gums for overall health,
Avoiding high sugar foods:
Do you ever experience a rough or fuzzy sensation in your teeth? If this is the case, it is possible that you are leaving dental plaque on your teeth. You might find that there is more plaque on your teeth after eating foods high in sugar. Choose the best food for dental health to avoid plaque buildup.
It’s critical to read labels when shopping because many “healthy” foods aren’t good for your teeth.
Teeth floss:
Plaque prefers to remain hidden in areas where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Flossing helps to prevent cavities from forming between teeth, which will save you from an unpleasant surprise during your next teeth cleaning and oral examination with us.
Rinsing the mouth:
To help strengthen tooth enamel, we recommend using a fluoride mouth rinse. Mouth rinse aids in the removal of any residual plaque or food particles that may have been left behind after brushing and flossing. Your dentist can advise you on the best brand for you.
Quitting tobacco and alcohol:
Smoking is one of the habits that is the most detrimental to one’s oral health. Tobacco use causes tooth discoloration, plaque/tartar accumulation, periodontal disease, tooth loss, bad breath problems, and oral cancer. It also reduces your mouth’s ability to heal after an injury.
Alcohol, like tobacco, can be harmful to your healthy teeth and gums. Alcohol dries out the mouth, reducing saliva production and promoting the growth of bacteria and plaque. A large amount of alcohol is sugary and acidic, which causes tooth decay and, eventually, tooth loss. People who drink alcohol on a regular basis are more likely to develop oral cancer than non-drinkers. Ensure to consume the best foods for gum and teeth health that are beneficial for oral health.
Visiting the dentist often:
Make regular visits to your dentist a priority. When you have questions about your oral hygiene, go to a provider you trust and who makes you feel at ease. If you have insurance, make sure you use all of its benefits. Many plans include a cleaning and routine check-up every six months.
Keep them safe:
Your teeth are invaluable. Avoid using them for tasks that a pair of scissors can handle at all costs. While it may be tempting to use your teeth for practical purposes, such as opening sauce packets or chewing on a pen cap while trying to concentrate, these actions can wear down your teeth over time or, in the worst-case scenario, cause injury. Many people suffer from tooth chipping or breaking as a result of this type of abuse.
Your tongue is also important:
Brushing your tongue, especially before going to bed, ensures that bacteria is well under control. Bacteria can thrive on your tongue while you sleep and establish themselves on tooth surfaces in contact with your tongue.
Tooth decay is caused by bacterial activity on your teeth, which feeds on whatever they can find. Brushing your tongue removes both food and bacteria, lowering your risk of tooth decay.
Gum disease may result in tooth loss. Most people, however, can avoid gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene.
Brushing the teeth with fluoride toothpaste on a regular basis, flossing, and rinsing the mouth with care are all steps to take. These small tips for caring for teeth and gums can aid in providing the best oral health.
Simple at-home oral care and dental check-ups can aid in the prevention and treatment of gum disease and also for dental and oral health. If a person begins to exhibit any of the signs of gum disease, such as gum pain that lasts more than a week, they should consult a dentist.
