Periodontal disease is also called gum disease and this can affect the supporting structures of the teeth and your gums. When this is not treated, you can experience bone deterioration, tooth loss and many systemic health complications.
The primary method of preventing periodontal disease
Is to maintain proper oral hygiene practices. You have to brush teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. All surfaces of your teeth has to be cleaned as well as the area along the gumline. Flossing is also important as this can get rid of plaque and debris that cannot be cleaned by a toothbrush especially in hard to reach areas such as in between teeth. You can use an antimicrobial mouthwash as well after you have consumed sugary or acidic food. By ensuring proper hygiene, you can prevent harmful bacteria from accumulating in your mouth. This will prevent the build-up of plaque as well which leads to periodontal disease. It is also important that you go for regular dental treatment and examinations. A professional teeth cleaning can be done at the dental practice that can further get rid of any plaque or tartar build-up in hard to reach areas of the mouth. Even with flossing, you may miss certain areas.
Your diet also has a big impact on the health of your gums.
You can choose food that is low in sugar and acidity as these contribute to the formation of plaque. You need to consume sufficient fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins in the diet so that you can obtain essential vitamins and minerals. These will support your gum health. You have to get rid of habits such as excessive consumption of carbonated beverages, processed foods and sugar snacks. These food items can promote the growth of bacteria which can contribute to gum disease. The use of tobacco such as smoking can increase your risk of developing gum disease. This is because tobacco can weaken your immune system and reduce the blood flow to gums. Your body’s natural ability to combat infection is reduced with tobacco use. The symptoms of periodontal disease can also be masked with this habit so it is a lot more difficult to detect this in its early stages.
Stress management is also essential in reducing your risk for periodontal disease.
This is because chronic stress can weaken your immune system and this can lead to inflammation in all parts of your body. And when you have high levels of stress, it can exacerbate periodontal disease. It will increase the risk of infection for gums. Some stress management techniques you can use are yoga, exercise, deep breathing and meditation. You also need to take care of yourself by having sufficient sleep and eating a healthy diet. Make sure that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush as this can help clean all surfaces of the teeth without damaging the gums. When bristles rare hard, it can lead to the recession of gums and be abrasive to your tooth enamel.
