5 Steps to Beating Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it can be relatively easy to prevent. Although there can be a variety of causes, poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of gum disease. Due to this, most people can reduce the likelihood of developing the condition simply by updating their oral hygiene routine. With this in mind, take a look at these five steps to beating gum disease and enhance your health now:
1. Spot the Signs
When people develop gingivitis, it can develop into full blown gum disease, or periodontitis, without effective measures. Characterised by gum irritation, bleeding and/or bad breath, gingivitis occurs when a build-up of plaque triggers an immune response. At this stage, upgrading your oral hygiene and removing the plaque can prevent periodontitis from developing.
2. Understand the Risks
Although gum disease isn’t uncommon, few people understand just how damaging it can be. If left untreated, gum disease breaks down the connective tissue that holds your teeth in place and causes the bone to ‘shrink’ or move away from the teeth. As a result, teeth become loose, and the risk of infection increases.
However, this isn’t the only risk associated with gum disease. Studies have shown that people with gum disease have two to three times the risk of experiencing cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes. While further research is required to understand this link, it is possible that reducing your risk of gum disease could enhance your heart health too.
3. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups can be one of the most effective ways to prevent or treat gum disease. With input from professionals, you can find out whether you’re already developing symptoms of gum disease and, if so, what you can do to resolve it.
It can be tempting to put off visiting your dentist until you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, but this can allow additional problems to develop. With regular check-ups at Enhanced Dental Studios Redcliffe, you can ensure that your oral health is monitored, and that preventative treatment is undertaken when necessary. What’s more – your dentist will be able to provide important guidance to help you improve your oral hygiene routine.
4. Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Sugar can increase the amount of plaque that forms on and around your teeth, which fuels gingivitis and periodontitis. By reducing your sugar intake, you can minimise the formation of plaque and help to prevent gum disease from developing. Remember – natural sugars can damage your teeth in the same way as refined sugar, so monitor your intake of fruit and fruit juices, as well as sweets and soda.
5. Improve Your At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine
Regular brushing and flossing can help to remove plaque from your teeth and gum line, which is why it should be a critical part of your daily hygiene routine. If you’re unsure how to floss effectively or which products you should be using, ask your dentist for advice and guidance.
Keeping Gum Disease at Bay
With regular dental check-ups, a healthy diet and an effective at-home oral hygiene routine, you can drastically reduce your risk of developing periodontitis. Similarly, visiting your dentist for routine appointments will ensure that any issues, including gum disease, are diagnosed and treated before they have a chance to cause irreversible damage to your health.