Gum disease is serious business. As any dentist in Danville will tell you, it’s not only the #1 cause of tooth loss, but also increases your risk of many different diseases such as Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, stroke, and heart disease. Unfortunately, it’s also very common and affects an estimated 50% of adults. The good news? There are easy ways to prevent it (or at least manage it to keep it from progressing). Keep reading for 5 great tips you can start using right away to keep your gums in great shape.1. Eat Lots of Fruits and Veggies
Fruits and veggies are packed with vitamins and benefit your whole body from head to toe. In particular, citrus fruits and berries have high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants to reduce inflammation in your gums (which is the source of gum disease).
2. Crowded Teeth? Consider Orthodontic Treatment
Many people think of orthodontic treatment as a way to enhance the look of their smile, and it certainly does that. But crowded teeth are harder to keep clean because they create tight spaces. These areas collect plaque and bacteria that contribute to gum disease. Getting braces, whether Invisalign or traditional braces, straightens the teeth and reduces the places where bacteria can hide.
3. Add the Right Products To Your Oral Hygiene Routine
While brushing and flossing are the cornerstone of gum health, the right mouthwash can be an effective addition. There are various options on the market, and most have a specific purpose (although there are also all-in-one formulas). To target your gums, choose an antiseptic rinse that kills bacteria, the source of gum inflammation.
4. Use the Right Tools
An electric toothbrush will do a much better job than you can do with a manual. To begin with, it automatically stays on for 2 minutes. It also provides thousands of brush strokes per minute and, when used correctly, applies less pressure to your gums. And, nowadays, there are options available at every price point.
5. Schedule Regular Checkups
Last but not least, don’t forget to schedule regular checkups. These visits include an annual gum exam that’s designed to catch gum disease as early as possible, when treatment is most effective. If gum disease isn’t caught in time, it’s a lot more likely to progress to more advanced stages and increase the risk of tooth loss.
Your gums are the foundation of your smile. With these 5 tips, you’ll keep them in great shape and have many years of good oral health ahead of you!
About the Author
Dr. Donald G. Cairns is a dentist in Danville with decades of experience and also a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. He’s completed advanced training in periodontics and is an expert in the prevention and treatment of gum disease. If you’re concerned about your gum health or have any questions, he can be reached via his website.