Gum disease is widely experienced but also severely underestimated by a huge percent of the population. Left untreated, the condition can easily progress to severe health problems that go beyond your mouth. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and even muscular and nerve damage to the jaw without warning.

By practicing the following preventive measures, the development of gum disease can be avoided. These practices, when incorporated into one’s daily routine, is key to maintaining one’s dental health.

1 – Floss at least once a day

Gum disease typically develops because one neglects basic oral hygiene practices such as flossing. It is important to floss at least once a day to dislodge any food particles your toothbrush may not have been able to eliminate. This keeps them from staying and eventually disintegrating between your tooth and gums, leading to bacteria and plaque buildup which causes gum disease and tooth decay.

While most people floss only once a day, you can also floss twice—before you brush in the morning and evening. If you don’t have the time, however, once will do!

2 – Don’t rush through your teeth-brushing routine

The majority of people brush their teeth absentmindedly, paying little attention to the quality of the clean. In many cases, they rush, skipping certain areas and failing to get a good clean. However, it is extremely important to take the time and effort to brush your teeth well. Dentists recommend spending at least two minutes to ensure effective oral health care.

Develop the habit of brushing the teeth twice a day according to recommended methods to ensure your gums and teeth are well-protected.

3 – Say no to refined sugar as much as possible

Sugar is the number one cause for oral health deterioration. Not only does overconsumption  weaken the gums, but it also breaks down the protective enamel of our teeth.  Excessive sugar consumption will most certainly lead to gum disease and a variety of other health concerns that are not just dental in nature.

Exercising control over one’s sugar intake is not only good for our oral health, but for our overall physical wellbeing as well.

4 – Don’t skip your biannual dental appointments

It is important to have a professional check up with a dentist every six month to proactively maintain good oral health. During the visit, your dentist will also perform a professional cleaning, which involves plaque removal and often a fluoride treatment. This will clear out any particles and build-up that your toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash may not have been able to reach.

Regular dental cleanings keep your teeth and gums in the best condition possible, preventing the development of any other mouth diseases. It also gives your dentist a chance to inspect every nook and cranny and discuss any changes in your oral health that you might have experienced. Any issues can be addressed rapidly which, in the long run, minimizes emergency dental expenses and avoidable pain.

Conclusion

Good dental care starts at home. By keeping up with your brushing, flossing, nutrition, and dentist visits, you’ll be able to keep your teeth in the best condition possible. That way, emergency dental situations can be kept to a minimum and you won’t be paying any more than you should.

It is important to choose a qualified, affordable dentist to administer check-ups and cleanings. Schedule a dental cleaning in Edmonton by making an appointment with Edmonton Smiles. Our friendly dentists will ensure you are taken care of and start improving your oral health at cost-effective prices.

Posted in Clinical Advice and Oral Health Tips