Gingivitis is Not Inevitable: Learn 3 Ways to Help Prevent It
No one wants to get gum disease yet millions of people across the country have it. In its beginning stage, it is known as gingivitis and is relatively easy to avoid and to treat. However, if gingivitis is gone untreated it can turn into full-on gum disease, which has been linked to many health issues in addition to the havoc it can wreck on the gums and teeth.
If you want to avoid getting gum disease then you will be glad to learn that there are really just three simple things to do. Read on and then feel free to reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you are in need of a dental appointment.
- Make sure you are brushing the flossing the way you are supposed to
- Keep up with your dental appointments
- Stay away from specific foods and drinks
Brushing is important, yes. In fact – the number one reason people get gingivitis is because they are not brushing or flossing correctly. Start by ensuring you have a brush that fits correctly. Then brush using the proper method and do so twice a day. You also need to floss at least once a day to get rid of food and bacteria that is trapped between your teeth. Check out our home care guide if you are not sure you’re brushing correctly.
You should be visiting your dentist at least twice a year. If you are not doing so, then you are increasing your chances for gum disease and a host of other dental issues. When you visit every six months, your dentist can catch any issues early. They can provide deep cleanings that get rid of plaque and hardened tartar. In short, a visit to the dentist is a priceless hour of prevention.
Some foods and certain drinks can make it more likely to get gum disease. Remember that gum disease is caused by bacteria in your mouth. If you let bacteria sit in your mouth for any extended period of time, then the damage can begin to get serious. Anything that stick to your teeth after eating it is going to prolong how long bacteria sits on your tongue.
Bread is another food to avoid as much as possible. When it is combined with your saliva, it turns into a starchy paste. It then adheres to your teeth and bacteria has something to feed on. If you are going to eat something sticky or starchy, brush and floss afterwards. Try to avoid liquids with a lot of sugar as they can also feed bacteria.
Today is the day to make a dental appointment
If you keep thinking about making a dental appointment but never take the final step then we hope today will be the day. The reality is that most dental problems are either preventable or are minor when they are first apparent. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 and let us help you keep your teeth free from gingivitis.
