When you think of your oral health, there is a good chance that your primary focus is on your teeth. And, while they do require diligent care, you cannot overlook the importance of your gums - and their health.
Your gums are there to keep your teeth in place and to keep bacteria out. Unfortunately, if plaque builds up on and under the gum line, it can lead to the beginning stage of gum disease known as gingivitis. You may begin to experience gums that are inflamed, red, swollen, or bleeding, as well as bad breath, loose teeth, or a receding gum line.
To reverse or halt the spread, here are a few ways that you can prevent gum disease.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is a must if you want to avoid gum disease. This means brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice per day. Flossing daily is important, too, to keep anything from building up in between the teeth or around the gum line.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is terrible for your body in general. It weakens your immune system and leaves behind a trail and unwanted toxins. This can impede your body’s ability to heal and make it tough to fight off infection.
To give your gums a fighting chance, stop smoking.
Remain Hydrated
Drinking water and staying hydrated are so important for the body in many ways. It fights off gingivitis, too.
Saliva works against plaque. With the moisture, plaque and other debris can get carried away with each swallow. Thus, reducing your chance of buildup and, ultimately, disease.
Eat Well
The foods that you eat can play a role in whether or not you develop gum disease. Ditch the sugary foods and drinks - and limit refined carbs. Bacteria in your mouth love to dine on these things which can cause damage to your teeth and gums.
Boost Your Vitamin C Levels
Vitamin C is very beneficial to maintaining healthy gums. Getting the right amount can increase your ability to fight off gum disease before it even has a chance to start - and helps to heal gums that may already be ailing.
Indulge in foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as citrus, bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, and more. Or, take a daily supplement.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Perhaps the most important step you can take to prevent gum disease is to visit your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning.
During these visits, the dental hygienist will be able to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that you have been missing with your own oral hygiene routine.
If not addressed, this is what can begin to wreak havoc on your gums and teeth. Should you notice anything in between visits - especially the signs discussed above - then it is important you make an appointment to be seen by your dentist as soon as possible.
Gum Disease Prevention at 508dentist
Whether you are dealing with the first signs of gum disease or you have let it advance further, the experienced dental team at 508dentist can provide treatment. We offer a no-judgment zone, meeting our patients right where they are on their journey to oral health.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 508-336-8478. Or, request an appointment online.