Periodontal Disease: How to Prevent its Onset
Posted by admin under Blog, Dental care, health | Permalink | | Leave A Comment | Comments Off
Brushing and flossing alone are dental health practices that are not always enough to prevent the onset of gum disease. Though these activities must still be accomplished daily; you need much more than that to avoid gum problems in the future. In order to avoid the problems caused by this disease, here are some tips to follow.
1. Periodontal and gum disease occurs when bacteria that lodges in the mouth attacks the bones and gums supporting the teeth. There are millions of them found in the mouth and it is important that something must be done daily to kill most of them, hence the need to brush and floss everyday.
2. Brushing must be accomplished twice each day making sure that it is done for at least three minutes. Toothbrushes with hard bristles must not be used since these could actually harm gum tissue that cause more harm than good. Dentists advise the use of tooth brushes with soft bristles which can reach even the areas of the teeth that are difficult to clean. Hard-bristled brushes could actually harm gum tissue and cause more harm than good.
3. Flossing must be done at least once each day. There is a need to do this especially after eating sweet snacks or drinks full of sugar; especially after brushing your teeth. The maintenance of oral health must be done to prevent the onset of gum disease.
4. Excessive smoking must be avoided, even chewing tobacco. Not only will these add stains to your teeth, but will allow bacteria more chances to harm your gums. When bacteria are left to feast on your gums and mouth, this will be the beginning that symptoms of gum disease begin to appear.
5. When bleeding of the gums are noticed, even after following routine dental hygiene practices like brushing or flossing, consider going to a periodontist. They can give information on what caused the gum disease and possible treatments to be undertaken to prevent severity. They are the first lines of defense in the fight against any gum problem. Gum problems are not easily noticed as the symptoms are not readily apparent. That is why it is important to have regular check-ups with your dentist who will be able to see the early signs of periodontal disease and treat it before it becomes severe.
6. Consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals that functions well in strengthening bones and teeth. To maintain oral health, a balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and meat, and whole grains and cereals must be eaten everyday to obtain the nutrients needed for healthy teeth. Vitamin C provides protection against infection and the minerals Phosphorus and Calcium are great in the protection of teeth from decay.