4 Healthy Habits For Avoiding Gum Disease

The good news is that periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) is preventable and easily treated if caught early.

The bad news is if periodontal disease is allowed to progress, it can result in tooth loss. Periodontal disease is usually pain free, so many people are unaware they have the disease until they develop symptoms such as bleeding, red and swollen gums, bad breath, gum recession, sensitivity and loose teeth

Here are 4 top tips you can practice to prevent periodontal disease.

1. Brushing and Flossing Daily

Gum disease is a bacterial infection caused by plaque bacteria. When plaque is allowed to accumulate on teeth, it results in red and swollen gums.

Removing plaque daily with brushing and flossing will reduce your chances of a gum inflammation and infection. Missing just one day of brushing and flossing is enough to allow the gum inflammation to get started.

Don’t forget to brush your tongue too as it does house bad bacteria that can lead to bad breath

2. Replace Your Toothbrush After 3-4 Months

Change your manual toothbrush every 3 months or after being ill as bacteria can survive within moist toothbrush bristles.

It is always best to go for a small head and medium textured toothbrush for proper plaque removal and better access to difficult to reach areas such as the back of the mouth.

Remember to brush the gum line with your toothbrush bristles angled towards your gums at a 45 degree angle and not forgetting the insides and biting surfaces of your teeth.

As a general rule when toothbrush bristles appear to look splayed whether you use a manual or electrical toothbrush, it is usually a good indication to replace your manual toothbrush or change the head of your electrical toothbrush.

3. Routine Check-ups and Professional Cleaning

If plaque is not removed, it will harden to form calculus (tartar). Even the most diligent personal hygiene can miss plaque, so attending your routine check ups will allow your dentist to catch the disease early.

Professional dental cleaning by your dentist will clear away any remnant plaque and tartar, which can greatly reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Smoking is the number one cause of gum disease.  As a smoker you will find that your gum disease is more likely to worsen quickly leading to tooth loss.

You will also find that treatment is less effective in stabilizing your gum disease and you are more likely to relapse. Quitting smoking will boost your gum health and avoid infection.

Make these small changes in your life and get better oral health and smile.