Gum disease is a common dental affliction, affecting every third person in our community. The consequences of this disease can be severe and debilitating therefore, an early start of treatment with long term treatment planning is recommended. But as they say “prevention is better than cure”, good oral hygiene practices can do wonders for your gum health. They not only help maintain the hygiene of our gums but also play an important role in the treatment of gum disease. Wondering how you can improve your oral health by simple, homely measure? Read on to find the answers.
What is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis, more commonly known as Bleeding Gums is the most prevailing gum condition characterized by: swelling, redness and irritation of gums. Gingivitis is a milder form and early stage of Gum Disease called periodontitis. If the warning signs and initial symptoms of Bleeding gums are ignored the disease may progress from the gums to infect the underlying bone, causing more severe and complicated outcomes such as tooth mobility, bone loss, gum recession and tooth sensitivity.
Top Oral Hygiene Measures to Keep Your Gum Health in Check
REGULAR DENTAL CLEANINGS
Fix a habit of routine dental check-ups and cleanings every six months. Your hygienist or dentist can easily detect early signs of gum disease before any serious symptoms show up. Additionally, opt for dental cleanings as they are the only method to remove tartar build-up. These cleanings also remove any residual plaque missed during your oral routine. Finally, dental cleanings help reduce inflammation in gums and remove harmful bacteria- aiding in reversing the onset of gum troubles.
QUIT SMOKING
Kick that butt because smoking is associated with the onset of gum infections. Further, it weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight that infection. Also, remember that any smoker will have delayed and slow healing as compared to his healthy counterparts.
USE A THERAPEUTIC MOUTHWASH AND FLOSS
A Therapeutic mouthwash comes in handy if you are looking to prevent gum infection and plaque accumulation. Swishing it around the mouth helps remove the food debris between your teeth and from hard to reach areas. It can also assist in plaque reduction and reduction of gingivitis.
WATCH YOUR DIET
Sticky or processed food is easier to break down by the bacteria in your mouth, resulting in faster plaque formation. Veggies like spinach and kale, on the other hand, are packed with vitamin C that helps reduce inflammation in your gums and promote healing. Onions also have antibacterial properties which help protect your gums. Therefore, changing your diet can go a long way in easing your gum troubles.
SCRUB THAT TONGUE
Not only your teeth and gums but your tongue also harbours bacteria, and it is the prime cause of bad breath. So, giving a gentle cleaning to your tongue with a soft-bristled brush is as essential as your routine dental care.
Concluding Thought
Your Gum health plays a critical role in your overall oral care-considering it seriously and adopting habits for its betterment goes a long way in keeping those teeth bright and strong. That said, one does not need to shell out big bucks to maintain the health of those gums. A slight change in our oral routines and a little mindfulness in our diet will do the job just fine.