The majority of adults are unaware of how serious a condition like gum disease can be. If left untreated, it can cause your teeth to become loose or even fall out and can lead to the serious and unsightly condition of gum recession.

Unfortunately, for some people, gum disease is genetic and they may have saliva in the mouth which is worse at removing bacteria and plaque, both of which are linked to gum disease. If you have type 2 diabetes or are pregnant, you are also at a higher risk of developing gum disease.

So, to keep your smile looking great and to maintain your health, you will want to prevent gum disease in any way you can. Luckily, it’s not too hard! In this article, you will be guided through 5 very simple ways to prevent gum disease, but of course, if you suspect that you have gum disease, you should seek the advice of your dentist Wagga.

Brush your teeth twice a day

Every dental team you will ever meet will ask you if you brush your teeth twice a day and there is a very simple reason. Brushing your teeth twice a day, preferably with an electric toothbrush, removes plaque and bacteria from the teeth and the gums. Considering that both of these are responsible for the formation of periodontal disease, this is one of the most important steps you can take toward preventing it. If you regularly consume foods that are high in sugars or eat a lot of carbohydrates, it may be recommended to brush your teeth more regularly to prevent the accumulation of plaque and bacteria in hard-to-reach spots.

Floss!

You need to know that 40% of tooth surface is in between your teeth, which is why many dental teams also talk so much about the importance of flossing. While it can be tricky to learn how to floss without cutting your gums, practice makes perfect, and your dental team will be able to show you the most efficient techniques on how to remove plaque from between your teeth. You can also use interdental brushes or even use a water-based flossing system if you can spare a bit more money.

Attend check-ups

To prevent gum disease, you also need to attend dental check-ups every 6 months. If your dental team spots any signs that you have gum disease, they will be able to prescribe you a specialised fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash. They will also be able to offer you a scale and polish to remove any of the offensive plaque or bacteria that is worsening the condition.

Replace your toothbrush

Even if you’re using an electric toothbrush, you will need to replace the head every 3 months. This is because over time as they are used, the bristles on a toothbrush become softened and are simply not as good at removing plaque and bacteria.

Don’t smoke

There is a link between gum disease and smoking. This is because the chemicals that are in cigarette smoke can cause the gum tissue to become more permeable, thus enabling them to soak in more plaque and bacteria causing gum disease. So, one top way to prevent gum disease is to cut down on smoking or give it up altogether.

DISCLAIMER OFFSITE

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.