Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition affecting the gums and the tissues surrounding the teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and gums that can result from a diet high in sugar, poor oral health, and tobacco use, among other things.
Treating gum disease is crucial, as it can damage teeth and gums, leading to loose teeth, tooth loss, and chronic bad breath. Gum disease has even been linked to health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes [1].
So what are the top tips for successfully conquering your gum disease? We have them here for you!
Make a Treatment Plan With Your Dentist
Gum disease will not go away on its own, and even if you have the earliest stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, it’s still imperative to develop a treatment plan with your dentist rather than trying to resolve the condition on your own at home.
If your dentist has identified gum disease early, you may only need a root planing and scaling, which is a type of deep cleaning that allows your dentist to clean just underneath your gumline to remove plaque and bacteria that are contributing to gum disease [2].
People with more advanced gum disease cases may require antibiotic therapy, several deep cleanings, and gum grafting along with their regular at-home care routine.
Step Up Your Oral Hygiene
One of the most effective ways to treat and prevent gum disease is by maintaining oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Remember to clean along the gumline and reach all the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing daily removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup, so ask your dentist if a mouthwash would benefit your oral health while you are fighting gum disease [3].
Although keeping your smile clean is essential, remember that harsher or more frequent brushings are not more beneficial. Stick to a routine of flossing once a day and brushing twice a day unless your dentist advises otherwise.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
After your initial gum disease treatment, regular dental check-ups are essential for treating and preventing gum disease. Your dentist can assess the health of your gums and detect any signs of recurring gum disease early.
Professional dental cleanings, usually done every six months, remove tartar (hardened plaque) that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing. More frequent cleanings and check-ups may be recommended for some patients recovering from gum disease.
Your dentist may also recommend additional treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and bacteria below the gumline as necessary to keep gum disease away [4].
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you both treat gum disease and prevent it from returning. Smoking and tobacco use can worsen gum disease and delay healing. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your oral health.
Eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats is also important to provide the essential vitamins and minerals that support gum health. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks can also help prevent further damage to gums and teeth.
Some important nutrients for gum health include protein, vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, such as those found in green tea [5].
Don’t Wait to Treat Gum Disease
Treating gum disease requires a multi-faceted approach. By making these tips a part of your daily routine, you can effectively manage gum disease and improve your overall oral health. If you suspect you have gum disease or have been diagnosed, it's crucial to consult with your dentist for personalized advice and treatment options to protect your smile!
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6470716/
2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/all-topics-a-z/scaling-and-root-planing
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894074/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6516960/
5.
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&Conte
ntID=4062
