How to Maintain Good Oral Health and Prevent Gum Disease

The basic good oral health care teaches us to be hygienic and get away from gum disease as much as possible. However, despite the drive towards informing everyone about the significance of good oral health, many are still afflicted with gum disease causing early tooth loss and other related problems affecting the digestive system. Gum disease does not only affect our dental and physical health but also lowers our self esteem since it has a very huge impact in our physical attributes and limits our social life.

The two most common gum diseases are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis being the more common of the two can be cured and prevented easily if early detection is done. The symptoms of this disease include gum bleeding, discoloration of gums and surrounding areas, halitosis or bad breath and premature falling of gums. A person with gingivitis may also experience gum inflammation and formation of pus around the gums causing it to be painful and swollen.

There are various causes of gum problems but the most common reason is the accumulation of bad bacteria forming sticky and unhealthy plaque in the oral cavity. Aside from poor oral hygiene, plaque maybe also be caused by chewing of tobacco and smoking, excessive sugar intake and constant consumption of carbohydrate rich foods. It could also be due to some genetic factors like poor immune system, obesity and diabetes, while others acquire this as a result of puberty, pregnancy, menopause and medications such as use of contraceptive, anti depressants and heart medicines.

This is the reason why it is always important to constantly visit your dentist and have a regular dental check-up. Oral hygiene is very essential to have a healthy oral cavity with gums and teeth free from gingivitis and periodontitis. Here are some valuable tips to heal gum disease and maintain healthy gums and teeth.

1. We have often been told the brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent bacteria buildup. It still holds true for these are the major activities to maintain cleanliness in your oral cavity. Proper brushing should be observed and done twice or three times a day, preferably every after meal. This will prevent the accumulation of food debris in your mouth, while flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably before bed time.

2. People with gum disease should make it a habit to gargle with water after eating. They may also gaggle a combination of water and salt or mouthwash containing peppermint oil. This will contribute greatly to the healing process of their oral problem.

3. People with gum disease should also avoid or quit their unhealthy oral activities like smoking or chewing tobacco.

4. To stop gum disease naturally, one must make it a habit to massage their gums using their finger tips to allow smooth circulation of blood in the area.

5. Lastly, it is important to take and eat foods with that contain essential vitamins. Guava, oranges, limes, and lemons are just but few examples of foods containing Vitamin C that helps restore healthy gum condition.