Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup. When food particles containing sugars and starches such as milk, candy, soft drinks, and cakes are left on our teeth, they contribute to plaque formation. Plaque can accumulate not only on the surface of teeth but also beneath the gum line, leading to bone damage that supports the teeth.

Gum disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis, which causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums, and can advance to periodontitis, where the infection damages the supporting structures of the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common yet preventable condition that affects the gums and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Here are five ways how you can prevent this gum infection:

1. Avoid Sugary Foods

Sticky candies contain high amounts of sugar, which feed harmful bacteria in your mouth, accelerating plaque formation. Sugary sodas and fruit juices contain phosphoric and citric acids, which erode tooth enamel and cause staining.

Reducing alcohol consumption also contributes to better oral health, as it helps prevent dry mouth, which can lead to gum disease.

If you consume sugary treats, do so during meals. Eating candy with meals increases saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.

2. Brush Gently Twice a Day and Floss

Plaques must be removed to prevent cavities. It is the transparent bacterial layer covering the teeth. Hence brushing twice a day and flossing once a day helps in removing hidden bacteria and stimulates the gums. Thus your teeth will be healthier and gum disease is prevented.

Use toothpaste that contains fluoride and brush for two to three minutes. You should brush after every meal in a circular motion. Follow these brushing techniques for the best results. Change your toothbrush after three or four months or if brush is frayed earlier. If you are very dedicated to take care of your oral health, buy an electric toothbrush as they perform better than a manual toothbrush.

Bacteria may also present in your tongue leading to bad breath. So, gently scrub your tongue using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

3. Rinse Twice a day with a Therapeutic Mouthwash

A therapeutic mouthwash helps in avoiding gum problems and reduces plaques. The plaques and tartars that are hidden will be wiped off by a powerful rinse. Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash removes food particles from your teeth and gums.

Go for dental checkups every six months after even if you feel your teeth and gums are healthy. Get advice from your dentist about the usage of mouthwash. Do not use chlorhexidine mouth wash daily as it stains your teeth to brown color.

Your dentist will help you to choose the mouthwash that suits you and about its proper usage.

4. A Healthy, Balanced Diet is Necessary

Add foods that have antibacterial properties. Red, white or green onions have antibacterial properties that protect your gums. Hence, add additional onions to your meals.

Eat more amounts of vitamin C rich foods such as spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes red and green bell peppers, etc., they reduce inflammation and protect your gum from swelling and infection.

Foods that are rich in omega 3s such as nuts, sesame seeds, salmon fish, herring and mackerel, etc., also have anti-inflammatory properties. They contain a high amount of nutrients.

Chicken and grass-fed beef contain collagen which helps fight against gum diseases.

Drinking green tea is highly beneficial for oral health as they contain Catechins (an antioxidant). They fight against gum disease and protects from periodontal diseases.

5. Control or Quit Smoking

Smoking reduces saliva production, allowing bacteria to adhere more easily to teeth and gums, which accelerates plaque formation. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, a stubborn substance that is difficult to eliminate. Smokers face a significantly higher risk three to six times more of developing gum disease compared to non-smokers.

They restrict blood flow by causing infection and affects gums easily. Smokers have six percent more chance to affect from oral cancer than non-smokers. Their color of the teeth will be changed to yellow and bad breath is created easily.

To recover from bad breath oil pulling can be done. Use Coconut oil as it has anti-inflammatory properties and rich antioxidants that eliminate bad bacteria in your mouth easily.

Final Thoughts

Healthy gums are the foundation of strong teeth and overall well-being. By following these preventive measures, limiting sugar intake, maintaining good oral hygiene, using mouthwash, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and avoiding smoking you can protect your gums, keep them strong, and ensure a healthier smile for years to come!