How To Care For Receding Gums?
We all want to have strong, healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, with the busy lives we lead these days, it can be hard to find time for proper oral hygiene. But are there any tips and tricks that will help us maintain healthy teeth and gums without spending hours in front of a mirror?
There sure are! Below you'll find some quick-and-easy steps that will keep your mouth happy:
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a common affliction that affects millions of people each year, and it can be prevented with the right knowledge. Gum disease is essentially an infection in your gums caused by plaque buildup along teeth lines. The bacteria form tartar which then spreads to other parts of the mouth like your tongue or throat. This leads to inflammation as well as painful sores on the surface of your gum tissue called "pockets."
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is also caused by plaque. Your gums become inflamed, sore, red, swollen, and prone to bleeding as a result of gingivitis. Gingivitis is a reversible condition and can be relieved by brushing your teeth, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.
Periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease, is also a possibility. Periodontitis affects the bones that support your teeth. It can destroy the gums, bones, and tissues that support your teeth if left untreated.
Advanced periodontitis is the last stage of gum disease. It is when the bone that supports your tooth has been destroyed and where gum disease can progress to affect other parts of the body. Consistently bad breath or unpleasant taste, teeth appear to be longer than normal, gums that readily bleed, gums that are swollen, red, or sensitive, and gums that have pulled away from your teeth are all warning signs of gum disease, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
The best way to cure gum disease or avoid it in all stages is through excellent brushing, flossing, and rinsing habits. Here are a few more things you can do to strengthen your gums and teeth naturally.
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According to ADA (American Dental Association) Flossing helps to remove food particles that cling between teeth and below the gum line. At least once a day, floss your teeth. The best time to do it at night before bed time or do it after lunch.
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It is important to have a dental cleaning at least once every six months. Your dentist will use a tool called an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth below the gum line, as well as identify any tooth decay or inflammation of gums. Tartar may only be removed with a professional cleaning. It can help remove plaque that you may have missed while brushing or flossing. Brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental cleanings can help you get rid of gum recession.
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Smoking can change the structure of your gums and make them more susceptible to gum disease. Tobacco products also have compounds that irritate the mouth, leading to inflammation of tissue in general. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking lowers your immune system, making it more difficult to fight off a gum infection.
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Each meal should be followed by a brushing. Make sure to brush your tongue as well.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing for a full two minutes, using an up and down motion with the toothbrush bristles. This will help make sure you reach all of the hard to get areas around teeth, including under bridges or braces. Flossing is also important because it can loosen plaque deep in between your teeth while removing bacteria from surfaces that may not be reached by a toothbrush alone.
The Mayo Clinic recommends using a toothbrush with soft bristles that fits in your mouth. Also consider using electric toothbrush heads with a built-in timer, which can be more effective than your standard toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles fray.
Eating Right for Dental Health
One of the best things you can do to take care of your teeth is eat a healthy diet. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, which will lead to tooth decay and cavities. Limit how much juice or sports drink that you consume each day. Also limit snacks like chips or cookies which are hard on your teeth because they often have added sugar.
Hard sucking candies are particularly hazardous since they remain in the mouth for an extended period of time. Most people don't brush after snacking on sweet foods, it can lead to tooth decay. Potato chips, for example, are a starchy snack that sticks to the teeth.
Tips for Rinsing
According to the American Dental Association, antibacterial mouth rinses remove harmful microorganisms that cause plaque and gum disease. Rinse with water after brushing.
If you want to use a mouth rinse, try Listerine or Crest Mouthwash which are alcohol-free and won't dry out your gums. There is no need for toothpaste in the mouth when using these rinses. Simply swish it around your teeth then spit it out at least 30 seconds later. As per ADA fluoride mouth rinses are not recommended for children under the age of six because they may ingest the rinse.
Food and drink to avoid
Avoid acidic foods and drinks that can wear down your enamel, such as tomatoes or lemon juice. Be careful with fruit juices because they contain sugar.
Sugar and sweets usage should be restricted, as bacteria in the mouth require sugar to make acids that erode enamel and cause tooth damage. The demineralization process begins when teeth are exposed to sugar, and it can take up to an hour for the mouth to revert to normal, non-acidic pH levels.
Avoid sodas, candies, sweets, and sugary snacks, as well as chocolate, cookies, and fast food that is known to contain sugars. Consumption of starchy staple foods and fresh fruit has been linked to reduced levels of dental caries, indicating that the risk is not as significant as sugar consumption. It's vital to eat a range of nutrient-rich foods while avoiding sugary and starchy foods to maintain your teeth and gums healthy.
Bad breath can be a result of Poor Hygiene
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by poor dental hygiene and can indicate various health issues. The foods you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle behaviors might also contribute to bad breath. At home and with the help of your dentist or doctor, you can prevent and treat halitosis.
Signs of unhealthy gums
Gum disease is characterized by inflamed gingiva (gums) with redness and bleeding of the tissues. The progression of gum disease can lead to more serious oral health problems like tooth loss and bone deterioration. Gum disease isn’t typically contagious; however it's important to see a dentist immediately if you notice any signs or symptoms so they can diagnose the severity.
Don't Let Gum Disease Stop your Fun
Gum disease can be prevented with appropriate oral hygiene and regular dental exams. Even if the early signs of gum disease don't appear to be painful, therapy should be started as soon as possible. You have a better chance of preventing gum disease from worsening if you get treatment right away.
Use Nature's Smile Gum Balm
Nature's Smile Gum Balm contains all-natural ingredients that can help strengthen your teeth and gums. The balm is made with such herbs as sage, chamomile, lavender and peppermint oil to naturally soothe the inflammation of irritated tissues.
Gum disease can quickly spread throughout the mouth, causing tooth damage. Nature's Smile gum balm, on the other hand, can help to heal any damage to the gums and eliminate gum disease from the mouth.
