Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common dental problem affecting many people in Canada. Without treatment, it can cause pain, tooth loss, and even heart problems. You can prevent gum disease and keep your gums healthy by taking simple steps. In this blog post, we’ll talk about some of the best ways to avoid gum disease, like brushing teeth and visiting the dentist regularly. At Kitchener Dentist Fairway Dental, we care most about your oral health.
Summary of What’s Inside
- How to Spot Gum Disease
- Why Dental Hygiene is Important
- How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
- Flossing is the Best Way to Fight Gum Disease
- What Mouthwash Is Used For?
- Choices for a Healthy Diet and Way of Life
- Regular Checkups and Cleanings of the Teeth
- Don’t Smoke
- Know What the Warning Signs Are
- Talk to the Kitchener Dentist Fairway Dental for Help
How to Spot Gum Disease
Before figuring out how to stop gum disease, it’s important to know what causes it. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold and surround your teeth. It is caused by bacteria in dental plaque, which sticks to your teeth. The first two stages of gum disease are called periodontitis and gingivitis. Periodontitis is a more serious condition that can permanently damage your teeth and gums. Gingivitis, on the other hand, is less serious and usually easy to treat.
Why Dental Hygiene is Important
Gum disease can be stopped in large part by taking care of your teeth and gums. Gingivitis is a condition in which the bacteria in tooth plaque cause your gums to become red and swollen. Plaque can build up on your teeth and make it more likely that you will get gum disease. This means brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash every day, among other things.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to keep gum disease at bay. Follow these steps to make sure you are brushing your teeth well:
- Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that can reach every part of your mouth.
- Move your toothbrush gently in a circular motion around your gums while holding it at a 45-degree angle.
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, making sure to clean every surface.
- Don’t forget to clean your tongue, too, because bacteria can also grow there.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles start to fray.
Flossing is the Best Way to Fight Gum Disease
Flossing is an important part of your dental care routine because it gets rid of plaque and food stuck between your teeth and below the gum line. Follow these steps to floss effectively:
- Leave about two inches of floss free at the end of the 18-inch wrap around your middle fingers.
- Gently place the floss between your teeth while holding it tightly between your thumb and index finger.
- Use floss to clean between each tooth and where it meets the gum line.
- For each tooth, use a new piece of floss and be gentle to protect your gums.
What Mouthwash Is Used For?
Mouthwash is a good thing to use as part of your dental hygiene routine because it can kill bacteria and make your breath better. Choose a therapeutic mouthwash with antimicrobial ingredients to help reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis. But keep in mind that you should use mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing, not instead of these important steps.
Choices for a Healthy Diet and Way of Life
Your diet plays a big role in keeping your gums healthy and preventing gum disease. Here are some suggestions about food that will help you make better decisions:
- You should avoid sugary and starchy foods because they can cause plaque to build up.
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet full of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and veggies.
- To keep your teeth and gums healthy, eat calcium-rich foods like almonds, milk, and leafy greens.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, which can help get rid of bacteria and bits of food.
- To protect your teeth and gums, don’t use your teeth as tools, like when you open packages or split nuts.
Regular Checkups and Cleanings of the Teeth
Regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist are some of the best ways to avoid gum disease. Professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone can’t get rid of. Your dentist can look for early signs of gum disease and suggest ways to treat it before it gets worse. At least twice a year, you should go to the dentist for an exam and a cleaning.
Don’t Smoke
Your immune system gets weaker when you smoke, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. This makes smoking one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your teeth. Talk to your doctor about programmes and services that can help you stop smoking.
Know What the Warning Signs Are
It’s important to know the signs of gum disease because a quicker diagnosis can lead to a more effective treatment plan. Some of the most common warning signs of gum disease are:
- Red, swollen, or painful gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums that are receding
- Loose teeth
If you have any of these signs, you should visit the dentist for a thorough checkup.
Talk to the Kitchener Dentist Fairway Dental for Help
At Kitchener Dentist Fairway Dental, we care most about the health of your teeth. Our knowledgeable staff wants to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoid gum disease. If you have questions about your oral health or want to make an appointment, call us at 519-893-9494. We can work together to keep your gums healthy and free of disease.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.