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Keeping Your Teeth and Preventing Gum Disease

The Problem

Statistics show that an estimated 75% of Americans' have one form or another of gum disease. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems that go past those of the mouth. The two simplest methods in the prevention of gum disease are brushing and flossing daily.

Although this sounds so simple, there are a lot of people who neglect brushing and many, many more people do not floss at all. Dentists suggest brushing your teeth three times a day, but in our busy world, we should at least try to brush twice a day, once upon waking and once before bed. There are products on the market now that make brushing on the go easier such as little finger pads with toothpaste built in or little throw away toothbrushes with toothpaste already on the bristles. If you can get these, you can then squeeze in a lunchtime brushing or any other time.

Flossing

Some people think that flossing is optional, but it is not! Flossing removes bacteria and plaque from in between the teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach. It clears the bacteria and plaque away from the gums, keeping them healthy. Since gum disease is a direct result of bacteria and plaque, this step should not be skipped.

Contributors of Gum Disease

Tobacco, grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw, genetics and specific medications can contribute to gum disease. The beginning stage is called gingivitis. If caught early, it can be reversible. Periodontitis is the result of gingivitis left untreated. The bone and tissue in the jaw are infected, resulting in tooth and bone loss.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums. The area becomes infected and painful. You may not realize that persistent sore, swollen, red, or bleeding gums as well as tooth pain or sensitivity and bad breath are warning signs of periodontitis, an advanced form of periodontal disease (gum disease). Periodontitis is much more serious and is characterized by loose teeth and bone pain. Gum disease has also be shown to lead to an increase chance of stroke and/or heart attack and can also raise blood sugar levels.

Prevention Tips

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene by brushing at least two times a day, three if you can, and flossing daily. Twice yearly visits to the dentist for teeth cleaning and a check up is mandatory for a healthy mouth and gums and will save you the expense of major dental procedures in the future.