Gum Disease affects almost 50% of adults over 30 in the United States. One in every three of these adults suffers from only mild symptoms. However, gum disease is a progressive illness and can vary in severity from gingivitis (moderate) to advanced periodontitis (severe).
Every stage, if left untreated, can cause its own unique set of problems, none of which can be described as pleasant. Fortunately, a preventative oral maintenance routine can prove highly effective and stop you from suffering unnecessarily.
When it comes to your oral health, avoiding even mild issues with your gums should be high on your list of priorities. With that in mind, here are some steps to prevent gum disease and maintain a healthy mouth.
1. Maintain a Regular Brushing Routine
Purchase a high-quality toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Use these to brush your teeth for three minutes at least twice a day. Always brush along your gum line, which is very effective at removing any fragments of food.
2. Flossing Isn’t Optional
Some people think flossing is something you can do without. If you want to maintain good oral health and avoid further complications, daily flossing is a must. To put it simply, toothbrushes are not designed to clean any gaps between your teeth. If you are not a fan of flossing, talk to your dentist about the variety of alternatives available.
3. Bad Food Leads to Bad Teeth
Eating a healthy diet is one of the most effective methods of preventing gum disease. Plaque-causing carbohydrates found in starchy and sugary foods should be avoided. Conversely, following a tooth-healthy diet rich in vitamins C and A will help you keep your gums and teeth healthy.
4. Old Dental Work Needs Maintenance
Even the best dental work doesn’t come with a lifetime guarantee. Contact us if your crowns or fillings are loose, cracked or broken. You can prevent such problems from occurring by keeping a regular appointment with your dentist.
5. Pay Attention to Your Oral Health
Ignoring a dental health issue will not help it go away. Listening to your body for any warning signs it gives you is important. As much as you might not like it, your body is telling you to visit the dentist if you are experiencing any of the following issues.
- Swollen, bleeding, or irritated gums
- Biting or chewing causes pain
- Hot and cold food sensitivity
- Persistent bad breath
In Conclusion
While this list isn’t complete, following these steps will help keep your teeth from prematurely decaying, or worse, falling out. Our team are happy to assist if you have questions or concerns regarding any of the issues discussed in this article.
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