You might only consider your pearly whites when you think of your dental health, but your gums are equally important. For instance, they are responsible for helping to anchor your teeth firmly in place. If you develop periodontal disease, the tissues can recede from your enamel, increasing the risk of permanent tooth loss.
Gum disease can only be managed, not reversed, once it reaches its advanced stage. However, it can often be prevented by implementing these 3 simple but effective precautions!
Tip #1: Floss Twice Daily
You likely already know that brushing your teeth for two minutes both morning and night helps reduce plaque and bacteria that contribute to common oral issues, like tooth decay or gingivitis. But did you know sources estimate brushing alone likely only removes 30% to 50% of harmful residue buildup?
Germs can thrive in spaces that the bristles of your toothbrush can’t penetrate, like between your teeth and below your gumline. Flossing or rinsing with an oral irrigator after brushing helps eradicate any particles in hard-to-reach areas for a more thorough cleaning. Not only does this strengthen your enamel and connective tissues to increase your resistance to dental problems, but it also freshens your breath!
Tip #2: Use Mouthwash
Although brushing and flossing can effectively avoid many oral concerns, germs can cling to other surfaces in your mouth, such as on the tender tissues inside your lips and cheeks, as well as on or under your tongue. From there, they can spread to your teeth and gums, increasing the risk of developing decay or disease.
Thankfully, rinsing with a non-alcoholic mouthwash can potentially eradicate up to 99% of unwanted germs. It’s best to look for products that have the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval so you can trust that they are safe to use.
Tip #3: Stop Smoking
Regularly smoking cigarettes, vaping, or using tobacco products can significantly detract from your dental health. These products contain nicotine, which is the addictive ingredient that keeps you coming back for more. It also constricts your blood vessels, which reduces their oxygen levels and flow. That means your body is unable to deliver essential nutrients or infection-fighting cells to your mouth, leaving you more vulnerable to periodontal problems, tooth decay, and even oral cancers.
Quitting might seem like a daunting task, but you could start to see improvements to your oral health within a relatively short period after stopping smoking.
Making a few changes to your daily habits and routines can potentially strengthen your gums so they’re less vulnerable to damage and disease!
About the Practice
Patients at Mason Dental benefit from a team of dentists dedicated to helping improve their lives by enhancing their dental well-being. They share decades of combined experience and collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including gum disease treatments. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to help you feel comfortable while they deliver accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (802) 362-1099.