How to Maintain Your Gums and Teeth
Brushing and flossing your teeth is simple. And getting both of these things right can help avoid gum disease and tooth loss.
Bacteria found in plaque and tartar cause gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on teeth. It consists primarily of germs, mucous, food, and other particles. According to the American Dental Association, if plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, which serves as a home for bacteria (ADA). Bacteria in plaque and tartar create gingivitis, or gum inflammation. Tartar may only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
There are three stages of gum disease:
Gingivitis. At this stage, the gums are red, swollen, and painful, and they bleed easily. When detected early, the problem can frequently be rectified on its own with proper brushing and flossing.
Periodontitis ranging from mild to moderate. The inflammation and bleeding surrounding the tooth have intensified in the next stage. It occurs when bacterial toxins in plaque, as well as your own body’s defences, begin to degrade the gum attachment to the tooth. As a result, the gums peel away from the teeth, forming pockets of diseased material. Early bone loss around the teeth is possible. Treatment at this point is critical to preventing further bone loss and tooth loosening.
Periodontitis has progressed.
This stage features deeper gum pockets and extensive loss of the bone that keeps teeth in place. If periodontal treatment does not restore bone support, teeth may become so loose that they must be removed.
Periodontal disease symptoms frequently occur when the problem is advanced. Symptoms include:
- Long-lasting bad breath
- Red, inflamed, and painful gums
- Gums that recede from the teeth (receding gums)
- Chewing discomfort
- Teeth that be loose or sensitive
Risk elements
These variables increase a person’s risk of having gum disease:
Tobacco smoking or chewing
Female and female hormonal changes
Diabetes
Certain medications
Heredity
Prevention
Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day can help prevent gum infections, cavities, and tooth loss. The ADA recommends that you have your teeth cleaned and checked by a dentist or dental hygienist at least once a year. Even if you brush thoroughly, tartar and plaque can accumulate and cause gum disease.
To brush properly:
Brush your teeth in the morning and before retiring to bed.
Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride-containing toothpaste. Buy and use an electric toothbrush if you can afford it.
Brush each tooth 15 to 20 times while holding your toothbrush at a 45° angle towards your gums.
Use short, gentle strokes with the brush. Scrub not.
Brush the outer surfaces of the teeth with quick, back-and-forth strokes.
Brush the inner upper front teeth vertically against the gum line with quick, downward strokes. For the lower inner teeth, use short, upward strokes.
Brush the teeth’s chewing surfaces with quick, back-and-forth strokes. Experts recommend replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months if it is worn or frayed. After a cold, strep throat, or other sickness, you should also replace your toothbrush.
Do not cover or keep your toothbrush in a closed container. Microorganisms may proliferate as a result of this.
Floss with caution.
Flossing aids in the removal of plaque and food particles that become lodged between your teeth and under your gums. To floss properly:
Cut around 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your thumbs and forefingers. Place it between your teeth and glide it up and down softly.
Curve the floss around one tooth when it reaches the gum line. Gently rub the side of the tooth with the floss, moving it up and down, making sure to go below the gumline. Repeat this procedure for the remaining teeth. Remember to floss behind your back teeth.
Keep an eye on your diet.
When foods interact with germs in your mouth, they contribute to tooth decay. To keep your teeth healthy:
Consume a lot of calcium-rich foods like milk, yoghurt, and cheese. Calcium helps to keep the bone in which the tooth roots are implanted healthy. This is especially crucial for older people and youngsters as their baby and adult teeth mature.
Sticky sweets, such as soft candies, toffees, taffies, and pastries, should be avoided. After eating sweets, rinse your mouth with water. If you have time, wash your teeth.
If you must chew gum, choose sugar-free varieties.