Gum disease is not a condition you should ever ignore. At the first signs of trouble, you should talk to your dentist about how to treat these issues and restore your gums to good health. While the dentist can recommend in-office treatment, there are also things you can do on your own. Along with good prevention methods, make sure you follow some effective techniques for stopping this disease. If you take these matters seriously, you can improve the way you feel and the way your gums and teeth look.
This disease is common among people of all ages. In its beginning stages, known as gingivitis, gums swell and turn red. They may even bleed while the person is eating or brushing. Neglecting these signs can lead to a more serious stage called periodontitis. Teeth can start to pull away from the gums, the gums can recede, and bone loss can occur.
Prevention is possible with good oral hygiene. People should brush at least twice a day with fluoride-based toothpaste. This eliminates bacteria from the teeth and gumline. Flossing will also dislodge food particles and other debris, which would otherwise invite bacteria and the buildup of plaque and tartar.
The general dentist can diagnose a person with gum disease and start a treatment plan. In between regular checkups, patients should also look for signs of this condition. If any of the major symptoms are present, the person should schedule an appointment with the dentist. The dentist can determine the severity of the disease and whether in-office treatments are necessary. Regular follow-up on gum health may occur for patients with significant gum issues.
If the gum disease is mild, effective brushing could stop it and reverse its effects. Along with twice-a-day brushing, the individual should use a soft brush and get a new one every three months. The person should spend about two minutes brushing. It is important to brush both sides of every tooth and focus on brushing gums and the gumline. Brushing after meals is particularly vital.
Flossing is an activity that many people ignore. Flossing between every tooth once a day will reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It prevents the formation of plaque and tartar. Flossing should not be vigorous, but the patient should spend enough time on each tooth to do a thorough job. Flossing too much can pose more problems than it can be beneficial.
Rinsing with a mouthwash once or twice a day can help. A rinse can kill the germs that contribute to gum disease. Make sure the product has antiseptics so that it can clean the mouth more effectively. The dentist can also recommend a good mouthwash.
You should be the first line of defense against gum disease. Your dentist can help and provide treatment, but daily habits can turn back periodontitis. Brush and floss daily, and continue to visit the dentist. You can reduce the risk of more serious problems, such as tooth loss and bone loss.
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