Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an oral infection that can cause your gums to become inflamed and your bones to deteriorate if left untreated. Caused by harmful bacteria and germs that are left on your teeth and seep into your gums, gum disease includes symptoms like red, swollen, tender, and bleeding gums. Luckily, with just some preliminary precautions, you can easily avoid gum disease and ensure that your teeth stay healthy for as long as possible. From brushing your teeth to avoid smoking cigarettes, this article will discuss a few of the ways in which you can prevent gum disease. Read on to learn more.
Brushing
You should be brushing your teeth a minimum of twice a day— both morning and night. Ideally, however, you should be brushing your teeth immediately after every meal. By brushing your teeth, you can get rid of plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth throughout the day.
Flossing
After you eat, food can easily get trapped in between your teeth which can eventually lead to things like gum disease. Whether you choose to use a water flosser or traditional dental floss, make sure that you are flossing after every meal.
Mouthwash
Mouthwash should never be used in place of tooth brushing. However, mouthwash is a great defense against gum disease because it is perfect for getting rid of excess plaque and bacteria on your teeth that brushing and flossing missed.
No-Smoking
Smoking is bad for every aspect of your health, including your oral health. Smoking weakens your body’s immunities and makes it more difficult, if not impossible, to fight off the gum disease.
If you have noticed that your gums are a bit swollen, red, or tender to the touch, you may be suffering from gum disease. Luckily, with the help of the experts at McDowell Dental Group, you can treat your gum disease and get back to feeling like your normal self once again. To learn more or to schedule a dental appointment, contact McDowell Dental Group today!
