Everyday Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

Gingivitis and periodontitis, which are stages of gum disease, are serious conditions that can wreak havoc on a patient's oral health. Left untreated, these issues can lead to gum recession and eventual tooth loss. The good news, though, is that these problems are often preventable, and the steps needed to avoid them are easier than one might think. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Health, gingivitis and periodontal disease are largely caused by poor brushing and flossing. People must develop good daily oral hygiene routines to help reduce the chance of developing gum complications.

Daily habits that help prevent gum disease

Developing good oral hygiene practices is vital for persons of any age. Many gum disease prevention methods are common-sense approaches that are easy to implement. 

Brushing

Effective tooth-brushing is one of the most reliable ways of preventing gum disease. Most patients should be brushing teeth at least twice daily, but for those with risk factors for periodontitis, more frequent care may be necessary. Brushing should be done for at least two minutes every session.

While most individuals can benefit from an electric toothbrush, these devices are especially helpful for those with limited dexterity. These patients may find that a regular toothbrush is too difficult to maneuver effectively, and a power brush can do the work for them. This can help reduce overall plaque buildup and the resulting gingival inflammation.

Flossing

According to a study released by the American Dental Association, only 16% of adults state that they floss every day. While most people understand that flossing is important, many do not implement this into a daily routine. Plaque biofilm becomes trapped in the spaces between the teeth, and a toothbrush cannot effectively remove it. Without flossing, much of the tooth surface is not cleaned, and the bacteria found in plaque are able to cause destruction of the gums.

Rinsing

Using a mouthwash can be beneficial when used in conjunction with other oral hygiene aids like brushing and flossing. While rinsing alone does not fully cleanse all plaque and bacteria from teeth, it can help wash away biofilm that is loosened by brushing and flossing. Patients often like the fresh feeling that they have after using a mouthwash, so this is usually an easy habit to implement into a daily routine.

Conclusion

The prevention of gum disease does not have to be difficult. It does not need to involve hours of self-care every day. Instead, a few simple approaches to dental hygiene can greatly reduce the effects that plaque and bacteria have on the teeth and gums. The few minutes spent on daily hygiene habits can be highly beneficial long-term, and the prevention of oral disease is much easier than the treatment of it. For patients who have been lax with oral vigilance, now is the time to consult with a dentist. Getting back on track with routine dental care is one of the most important parts of gum disease management. 

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