According to the CDC, periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is among the leading infections affecting many people globally. Since the early phases of gum disease might not have apparent symptoms, some patients don’t notice they have a problem until it reaches an advanced phase of periodontitis. While untreated gum disease may progress to be a devastating problem, it is preventable. So, everyone must learn the steps to avoid this condition.
What Gum Disease Is
It is an infection that bacteria cause. The condition affects the tissues that hold our teeth in place. Normally, it stems from improper oral hygiene that allows plaque to accumulate on the teeth and harden. It starts with symptoms such as bleeding, redness, and swollen gums. If left untreated, you can end up being scheduled for same-day dental crowns or dental implants
to restore your smile and replace missing teeth.
Causes
Dental plaques, which are not removed daily, may harden and form tartar. Accumulation of tartar may result in gum disease.
Other causes include:
- Tobacco use
- Aging
- Poor nutrition
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Health issues like HIV/AIDs or diabetes
- Hormonal changes
- Family history and genetics
- Bad oral hygiene habits
- Some medications
Prevention Tips
Since gum disease can be so prevalent, it is important to consider tips that may help you maintain your overall health and keep your gums in good shape. These tips include the following:
Eat Healthily
The food we eat can impact our gums. To prevent this chronic condition, you have to incorporate the right nutrients into all your diets. Perfect examples include leafy greens and citrus fruits. Leafy greens can include collard, kale, and spinach, while citrus fruits might include grapefruits, lemons, and oranges.
Schedule for Checkups and Dental Cleanings
Generally, checkups involve an extensive dental cleaning and exam. Cleaning helps to prevent the condition because it removes stubborn tartar and plaque, which regular brushing can’t dislodge. By getting rid of bacteria, these major causes of the condition won’t accumulate in your gums and cause an infection. Your dentist will focus on your tongue, soft tissues, and teeth during an exam. The expert can also take X-rays.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco often minimizes the flow of blood in the gums and teeth, causing illness. This condition affects the bone structure, which supports the teeth. In addition, restricted blood flow impairs immunity, which can make infections, cuts, and ulcers in your mouth take longer to recover from dental procedures.
Floss and Brush Regularly
To minimize the risks of contracting the condition, it is important to follow basic oral and dental care practices, like brushing and flossing. Dental experts recommend brushing our teeth at least two times per day using fluoride-based toothpaste. Dentists also advise flossing our teeth every day to get rid of food particles and plaque that our toothbrushes can’t reach.
In conclusion, periodontitis disease is dangerous to dental, oral, and overall health. The best way to ensure your health is to schedule an appointment regularly with your dentist for quality dental care and a first-class Lakeway dentistry experience.
