About 47% of adults have some type of gum disease. However, the signs are silent, and unless you’re having regular dental check-ups and cleanings it can be hard to tell if gum disease is on the horizon.
Healthy teeth and gums are vital to the health of your entire body. When your mouth is healthy, so is the rest of you! This is because, with gum disease, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets, and allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream.
So what can you do to prevent gum disease? A lot, actually! Keep reading to learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
What Is Gum Disease?
Medically known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the gums that are caused by bacteria left on the teeth. These bacteria destroy the gums and some people even lose their teeth.
What’s worse, if left untreated, gum disease has the capacity to infect the whole body. People who suffer from periodontal disease also are subject to serious health problems like:
- Heart problems
- Stroke
- Diabetes
In short, gum disease can take a toll on your complete health.
Ways to Combat Gum Disease
Gum disease is a sobering disease, but it can be prevented and in some cases, treated.
Here are some ways you can prevent gum disease.
Oral Hygiene
You might think brushing alone is enough, but that’s not true! Brushing is critical to remove lingering and harmful bacteria, but flossing and using mouthwash are equally important. Doing all of these is a powerful force against gum disease.
Not just brushing after every meal, but eating the right foods as well! Eating a wide variety of whole foods helps clean your teeth and keep your gums strong.
Check-Ups
Having regular check-ups with your dentist is a key part of keeping gum disease at bay. Your dentist will be able to catch the first signs of any type of gum disease and suggest what periodontal therapy is suited to you. Periodontal therapy is a dental treatment that’s designed to reverse gum disease and get you on the road to a healthy smile.
For some people, gum disease is too far advanced for general treatment and may need more invasive measures. This is why it’s imperative to keep your dental check-ups. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions about gum disease at your visits.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is not only detrimental to your lungs but also your gums!
The tobacco in cigarettes directly impacts your gums and is a prime place for gum disease to happen. The onset of oral cancer is just as concerning, and it stems from using tobacco products.
If you want to keep a healthy smile and gums, stay away from any tobacco.
Fight Off Gum Disease
Gum disease can wreak havoc on your teeth, gums, and entire body. Keeping healthy oral habits, as well as seeing your dentist for regular check-ups can do wonders for warding off this terrible disease.
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