How to Prevent Gum Disease

April 15th, 2021

According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older suffer from some type of periodontal or gum disease. Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line and hardens into tartar. The gum flaps protect the roots, separate from the tooth, and dry out because they aren’t getting oxygen. This build-up and lack of oxygen can cause serious infections and eventually lead to tooth decay, bone loss, periodontitis, and painful gum surgery. Gum disease is also linked to a variety of other health conditions, including an increased risk for heart disease and diabetes. 

Learn more about the signs of gum disease and how to prevent it. 

SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE

When you’re cleaning your teeth, keep an eye out for pink in the sink because the first sign of gum disease is usually bleeding gums. Your gums should not bleed when you brush or floss. Nor should they bleed when you go to the dentist for your routine cleaning. 

Additionally, if your gums are tender, inflamed, or red, you may be suffering from gum disease. Other signs of gum disease include swollen gums, sensitive teeth, receding gums, pain while chewing, puffy gums, and chronic bad breath. 

HOW TO PREVENT GUM DISEASE

Although gum disease is very common, the good news is it is also preventable and reversible. Here are some steps you can take to prevent gum disease:

• Brush your teeth – You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. When you’re brushing, you should use a non-irritating, gentle, SLS-free toothpaste. Look for toothpaste that is made with aloe vera.
• Remove plaque – Regularly clean between your teeth with floss or picks to remove plaque. 
• See your dentist regularly – Receive regular cleanings from your dentist and communicate with them about your gum health. If possible, you should aim to visit your dentist twice a year. 
• Avoid smoking – Smoking makes it harder for your body to fight off a gum infection. It also makes it harder for your gums to heal if you do get an infection. 
• Know the risks – Some of the leading risk factors for gum disease are age, stress, medications, genetics, smoking, and poor oral hygiene. 
• Use mouthwash – After you brush, you should rinse with a germ-killing mouthwash. When you incorporate mouthwash into your daily oral hygiene routine, you’ll help combat bacteria and plaque build-up in your mouth. 
• Massage your gums – Gum massages help restore oxygen flow to damaged gums. 

PRODUCTS THAT HELP PREVENT GUM DISEASE

Aside from knowing the signs of gum disease and the steps you can take to prevent it, there are certain products you can use to maximize your efforts. 

Here are several products from The Natural Dentist that will help you treat and prevent gum disease:

• The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Toothpaste – Our SLS-free, fluoride-free toothpaste has 20% purified aloe vera and works to reduce plaque and fight gingivitis. It can also help treat and prevent bleeding gums. 
• The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse – Made with 20% purified aloe vera, our mouth rinse is proven effective for treating bleeding gums. It soothes and moisturizes while promoting gum health and freshening breath.
• Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers – Our Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers remove plaque and food from between your teeth while stimulating blood flow to your gum tissue, keeping your gums nourished and healthy. ADA approved and made from biodegradable wood. 

When you know the risks, follow a daily oral hygiene routine, and use the right products, you will be prepared to prevent and fight gum disease. Learn more about the causes and effects of bleeding gums.