You have probably heard about oral health severally, and its practices have formed a sequence in your mind. While the knowledge is essential, implementing the same is what brings out all the differences. The daily routines such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing using mouthwash are common among most people but may be contrary to others. Besides helping you maintain that bright and beautiful smile, oral hygiene prevents the occurrence of problems, including Monterey gum disease, which may lead to tooth loss, and is a common dental problem that affects millions of people in America.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease or periodontitis is a severe gum infection commonly caused by poor dental hygiene. The disease damages the gums and, without early medical intervention, may proceed to the jaw bone, making the teeth loose and may sometimes fall out. This condition is known as gingivitis during its onset stages, and it acts as a warning sign for periodontitis. Most people with gingivitis experience signs and symptoms such as swollen gums that bleed when flossing or brushing. Although common, gum disease can be prevented by brushing and flossing teeth every day.
Causes of gum disease
Gum disease develops when food remains mixed with saliva and bacteria in your mouth, forming dental plaque which sticks on the surface of your teeth. If you fail to remove the plaque by brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, mineralization happens, forming tartar, a hard substance that can only be eliminated by professional cleaning. The tartar contains bacteria and forms along the gum line, making it difficult to clean your teeth properly. The gums may pull away from the bone-forming pockets, which have bacteria.
Other factors contributing to gum disease
- Anticonvulsant medications such as Dilantin cause abnormal reproduction of cells in your gums, putting you at risk of gum disease. Other drugs make your mouth dry by interfering with saliva production, which has a protective effect on the teeth and gums.
- Hormonal changes that occur in different occasions such as menopause, puberty, pregnancy, and during menstruation causes gum sensitivity, increasing your chances of gingivitis.
- Medical conditions such as HIV affect the body’s immunity, hence the higher risk for gum disease. Diabetic individuals also have higher chances of developing periodontitis and other dental problems such as cavities.
Ways to prevent gum disease
Brush and floss daily
- Floss your teeth at least once each day as this helps remove food particles that can’t be eliminated with brushing.
- Ensure you brush your teeth at least twice every day using fluoride toothpaste and a brush with gentle bristles.
- Observe the proper technique when brushing or use a battery-powered or an electric toothbrush.
- Switch up your brush after every three months or whenever the bristles fray.
Visit your dentist regularly.
Regular dental check-ups help in the maintenance of healthy gums and teeth. Your dentist may detect inflamed gums during the examination and recommend treatment to avoid severe problems such as periodontitis. Other times check-ups include professional cleaning to get rid of tartar and plaque on your teeth’s surface.
Taking care of your oral health is equally important as caring for your body. Make an arrangement with your dentist at Perio & Implant Centers of Monterey Bay – Silicon Valley for a check-up to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
