How to Prevent Gum Disease: 7 Tips for Good Oral Health
Sep 06, 2021
Do you want to enjoy a mouth full of healthy teeth and gums for years to come? If so, then it is important that you take the time to learn about gum disease prevention. Gum disease affects nearly half of all adults in America today, and there are many steps that can be taken to reduce your risk. In this blog post, we will discuss seven tips for good oral health.
Brushing twice a day is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent gum disease. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing immediately after meals will reduce acid levels in your mouth and help protect teeth from decay. For optimal results, it is recommendable to use an antimicrobial Fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps repair teeth in order to prevent cavities in both adults and children. There are many different types of fluoride rinses on the market today that provide a boost in cavity protection and can help to reduce your risk of gum disease. If you are looking for an extra level of protection, make sure to ask your dentist about using fluoride toothpaste.
As you age, your teeth become more sensitive and may even begin to develop grooves or cracks in them. To ensure that you are brushing effectively without causing further damage, we recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Using a toothbrush that is too hard or stiff can actually cause more harm than good, which is why we recommend carefully reading the label to make sure that your brush features the appropriate level of stiffness (usually medium).
Flossing is another simple way to prevent gum disease. Flossing removes plaque that brushing can’t reach, which is why it is important to floss at least once a day to prevent periodontal disease. Flossing will help to clear away any bacteria that reside in the areas between your teeth and gums, which can lead to gum disease if left untreated. Additionally, regular interdental cleaners can help remove plaque between teeth where brushing and flossing are less effective. At your next appointment, ask your dentist about using an interdental cleaner.
Some acidic foods and drinks, especially citrus fruits, can increase the risk of enamel erosion. Enamel erosion is damage done to tooth enamel that makes it softer and more susceptible to cavities. If you are prone to acidic tooth decay, you should limit your consumption of these types of food and drink throughout the day. Even if teeth are healthy, regular exposure to acidic levels can begin to wear away at the surface of teeth over time.
Although soda may taste great, it can be bad for your teeth due to its high acid content. Excessive amounts of sugars in food and beverages can also lead to tooth decay. If you notice that your mouth is hurting after consuming certain food or drink, then it is time to cut back on acidic items.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for your oral health. Not only will you receive a deep clean, but you will also be able to learn more about the state of your teeth and gums during these visits. We recommend that all patients visit their dentist at least twice a year to keep up with good oral health practices.
In addition to your twice-yearly checkups, it is recommendable to visit your dentist as soon as you notice any oral health changes and problems. The earlier that issues are diagnosed and treated, the better we have to prevent serious dental complications such as periodontal disease. If you or a loved one is experiencing pain or discomfort, please reach out to us right away to begin treating your dental problems.
Taking an after-meal rinse is another simple way to keep plaque at bay and prevent gum disease. Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce the amount of acid in your mouth, which reduces damage done to teeth by cavity-causing bacteria. Although they are not as effective as brushing, using rinse after meals is better than nothing!
If you have issues with frequent gum disease flare-ups or cannot brush after every meal, you may want to ask your dentist about taking an antimicrobial rinse for preventive dentistry. These rinses contain active ingredients such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, reducing bacteria levels in the mouth.
Generally, a healthy diet and exercise will improve your oral health by strengthening your teeth. Clinical studies have shown that vitamin deficiencies can increase the risk of tooth decay. Vitamin D, calcium, and fluoride deficiencies play an important role in tooth enamel erosion. Make sure to get plenty of vitamins or eat lots of fresh fruit when possible to strengthen teeth from within.
Regularly exercising and eating a balanced diet is the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. A healthy person will be in a better position to fight off gum disease and tooth decay. Maintaining good oral health is very important, especially as you age, because your body’s ability to naturally fight infection decreases with age. Furthermore, excessive drinking or smoking can weaken teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities. To keep your teeth strong, limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking as much as possible.
There are many ways to stay healthy and protect your teeth from tooth decay or gum disease. Speaking with a best dental care clinic Scottsdale AZ professional will help you create a plan of action for brushing, flossing, and caring for your teeth. Remember that the key to good oral health is ongoing maintenance, which includes practicing proper brushing and flossing techniques throughout the day. By following these simple steps, you will provide your mouth with an extra layer of protection against tooth decay and gum disease.