Healthy gums are essential for maintaining good oral health. Unfortunately, because they are constantly exposed to the oral environment and harmful bacteria, they can develop infections (gingivitis), which, if left untreated, may spread and lead to complications. The risks associated with gum disease are very real.
The good news is that healthy daily habits can make a significant difference in promoting gum health and preventing gingival and periodontal disease. Here are 5 habits we strongly encourage you to adopt.
Use Dental Floss
Flossing is essential for cleaning between the teeth and removing plaque that can build up near the gums. When flossing is neglected, even for a single day, tartar can begin to accumulate at the base of the teeth, below the gumline. Tartar is a very hard bacterial deposit that can only be removed during a professional cleaning. Its build-up is directly linked to the development of gum disease.
Avoid Smoking
The many chemical substances found in tobacco smoke are extremely harmful to the mouth. Not only does smoking promote dry mouth, which allows bacteria to proliferate more easily since saliva has antibacterial properties, but tobacco smoke also disrupts the mouth’s chemical balance and makes the gums more vulnerable to infection. Smoking is also associated with several other serious conditions, including oral cancer.
Smokers are significantly more likely to develop periodontal disease, the advanced stage of gum disease.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol, like tobacco, is harmful to oral tissues. After consuming alcoholic beverages, the bacteria in the mouth break down alcohol molecules, making them particularly irritating to the soft tissues of the mouth, including the gums.
Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
For many reasons, it is important to eat enough fruits and vegetables every day. Canada’s Food Guide recommends filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables at each meal.
Fruits contain important vitamins, such as vitamin C, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help fight bacterial attacks. A proper intake can help prevent gingival and periodontal disease.
Crunchy vegetables such as carrots, celery, and peppers stimulate saliva production when chewed. Saliva naturally protects the teeth and gums from bacteria and the acids they produce. Raw vegetables are therefore a great snack option, as chewing them is beneficial for oral health.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
During your routine visits, you will receive a professional cleaning performed by your hygienist, which includes the removal of tartar. Even with good oral hygiene and healthy habits, tartar always ends up forming on the teeth, often just below the gumline. Removing buildup regularly helps prevent gum inflammation and therefore gum disease.
The examinations performed by your dentist during these visits also allow them to detect and diagnose any gingival issues before they spread and cause more serious problems. Early treatment can stop the progression of gum disease and help maintain excellent gum health.