Keeping your gums healthy is essential. Brushing or flossing is an easy process. Thus, by performing these two operations correctly, periodontal disease and loss of teeth can be prevented. Dental plaque is sticky and forms on the teeth. It usually consists of mucus, food bacteria, and other elements. The American Dental Association informs that if the plaque is not eliminated, it will harden, turn into Tartar, and become a hotbed for bacteria. Hence, this will lead to soreness of the gums known as gingivitis. A dentist can remove Tartar, consequently preventing tooth decay.
The three stages of gum disease are:
- Gingivitis- at this initial stage, swollen gums are more likely to bleed. If dealt with early, proper natural brushing and dental floss can naturally restore the condition.
- Slight to modest periodontitis- In the subsequent stage, soreness and bleeding around the teeth increases. When you begin to destroy your gums’ attachment to your teeth, bacterial plaque poisoning and bodily defenses occur. Therefore, this pulls the gums and the teeth away, forming pockets material that gets infected. Premature losing of bone near the tooth manifests. It is crucial to receive treatment at this phase to prevent further bone loss and tooth loosening.
- Progressive /advanced periodontitis- At this point, the gum pockets become deeper, and the bones of the teeth are severely damaged. If the teeth become very loose, and periodontal treatment cannot reinstate bone support, the teeth should be removed.
Signs of periodontal disease mostly appear as symptoms progress. The symptoms are:
- Long-lasting bad breath.
- Red and swollen gums.
- Gums tend to separate from the teeth (posterior gums).
- Pain experienced when chewing.
- Sensitive teeth.
Risks that lead to the development of Gum Disease
The following dynamics increase the risk of gum disease:
- Change in hormones for girls and women.
- Some medications prescribed by the doctor.
- Generic.
- Smoking or chewing tobacco.
Prevention of Gum Disease
Proper oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth and flossing at two times a day should be done. This routine will help avert infections of the gum, tooth decay, and loss of teeth. According to ADA regulations, it is also important for a dentist to clean and inspect teeth yearly. People can brush their teeth properly, but plaque and tartar will still build up and lead to gum problems.
Brush appropriately:
- In the morning, brush your teeth. Also, do so before sleeping.
- A soft brush should be used, and toothpaste should contain fluoride. If possible, put an electric toothbrush to use.
- Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush each tooth 15-20 times.
- The brush should be moved briefly and gently. Do not rub.
- The outer surface of your teeth should be brushed with a short backward-and-forth motion.
- Brush the lower anterior teeth vertically downward and make a short downward stroke. Use a short upstroke for the lower internal teeth.
- According to experts, if the toothbrush is worn out, replace it after three months. After suffering from a cold, a new toothbrush should be acquired.
- The toothbrush should not be covered or stored in an airtight container. Thus, this helps to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
Flossing with caution
Plaque and food particles under the teeth and gums can be removed by flossing. To correctly use dental floss:
18 inches of dental floss should be cut and held firmly with the thumb and forefinger.
- Insert it between the teeth and gently slide it up and down.
- When the gum lines get the dental floss, fold it over one tooth. Then rub the sides of the teeth gently. Move the floss up and down to move it under the gums. Remember to repeat this process for the remaining teeth and the back teeth.
Observe what you consume
When bacteria combine with food in your mouth, it can cause tooth decay.
How to Protect Teeth:
- Prepare lots of foods high in calcium. These are foods like cheese, yogurt, and milk. Calcium keeps the bone integrated at the root of the tooth. These foods are important for the elderly and children during dental development.
- Do not eat sticky candies, such as fudge, toffee, caramel, and pastries. After eating candy, ensure to rinse your mouth. Brushing teeth after eating sweets is the best option.
- When chewing gum, please chew unsweetened brands.
