Our teeth often get the most attention, but oral health is the most important part of our overall oral hygiene. Having a healthy jaw isn’t just about having straight teeth, it’s important for your overall health. Gum health is one of the most overlooked yet important aspects of a clean mouth. According to WHO severe periodontal diseases are estimated to affect around 19% of the global population, which is literally more than 1 billion cases.
Many people suffer from gum issues without even realizing it because they are usually painless. Therefore, it has become important to understand how to improve dental health to ensure that your teeth remain strong and healthy.
While many people consider oral health as separate from overall health, research increasingly shows that the health of your mouth can significantly impact your entire body. Poor oral health, particularly gum disease, has been linked to various systemic health issues. Understanding these connections can help emphasize the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
One of the most well-established links is between periodontal disease and diabetes. This relationship is bidirectional, meaning that each condition can influence the other:
- People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease due to their reduced ability to fight infections and slower healing processes.
- Conversely, severe gum disease can impact blood glucose control, making diabetes more difficult to manage.
- Studies have shown that treating periodontal disease can lead to improvements in glycemic control in diabetic patients.
This article will explore how to improve oral health, prevent common problems and maintain a healthy mouth.
In this article
5 Essential Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
Poor gum health can lead to several dental issues, such as periodontitis, and gingivitis, and can even lead to tooth loss. Understanding and implementing these practices on how to improve gum health will not only enhance your oral hygiene but also contribute to your overall well-being.
To maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease and bad breath, brushing your teeth with proper brushing techniques is essential.
1. Choose the right toothbrush:
a. A toothbrush with soft bristles that reaches all areas of your mouth easily including the back of your teeth should be used.
b. Brush Twice a day:
Brushing ideally after meals and before bedtime is recommended by health professionals, it helps you remove plaque buildup and prevent tooth decay.
c. Use the Correct Amount of Toothpaste:
A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is recommended for adults. Fluoride in toothpaste helps strengthen enamel but using too much of it damages the enamel and exposes your tooth to decay.
d. Brush Gently:
Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and use circular motion to clean your teeth.
2. Floss Daily:
Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth that brushing alone cannot.
Each teeth section should be flossed using a clean section. According to the ADA, flossing is one of the most necessary parts of oral care.
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3. Use Mouthwash:
Mouthwash contains antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride that help kill bacteria and prevent gum diseases. They also contain ingredients like menthol and essential oils that provide a fresh feeling and help combat bad breath.
One more advantage of using mouthwash is it reaches places a toothbrush can’t reach cleaning areas that are difficult to reach with brushing alone. Mouthwash reduces the amount of plaque on the teeth, prevents gum diseases, and removes food particles from the mouth.
4. Avoid Tobacco products:
One of the best ways to reduce the chances of gum disease is by avoiding tobacco products. Smoking and using other tobacco products can severely damage gums. According to the CDC, smoking makes a person more susceptible to gum diseases as it weakens the immune system.
5. Regular Dental Checkups:
Visiting your dentist every six months for professional cleaning and checkups reduces the chance of gum diseases, and early detection and treatment of oral health issues can help prevent them from worsening.
Understanding Gum Health
Gums create a barrier against bacteria, gums are tissues that surround and support your teeth. Healthy gums are firm, and pink and do not bleed easily during brushing or flossing or while simply eating. Gum disease generally starts as a sticky substance containing bacteria called plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Several diseases can be caused due to this causing your gum to swell, bleed, and even lose your teeth permanently.
What are the signs of healthy gums?
- Healthy gums are typically pink in color and the pink color is consistent throughout the mouth.
- Healthy gums do not bleed easily, bleeding gums while brushing, flossing or eating indicates poor gum health or other oral health issues.
- Healthy gums should not be swollen, painful, or sensitive to touch under pressure. There should not be any visible puffiness around the gum tissue.
Common Gum Diseases with their signs and symptoms
Gingivitis:
Gingivitis is the most common gum disease and it initially starts with mild symptoms but can escalate without proper care.
Signs and Symptoms
- Gums appear red rather than pink
- Persistent bad breath even after brushing.
- Swollen or puffy gums are another sign of gingivitis.
- Gums may feel tender and bleed easily during brushing and flossing.
- Fortunately, it can be treated by regular oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
2. Periodontitis:
- If gingivitis is not treated properly and is left undiagnosed it can advance to periodontitis.
- It extends beyond the germ line into the deeper supporting structure of the teeth.
- Bad breath, receding gums, and tooth loss in severe cases are the symptoms of periodontitis.
- The bacteria in plaque release toxins that trigger a chronic inflammatory response causing periodontitis. This disease also causes the pockets to form between the gums and teeth.
3. Gum Recession:
- The tooth’s roots are exposed due to receding gums.
- While eating or drinking hot or cold fluids you may experience sensitivity.
- Teeth may appear longer due to gum recession.
- Gaps may form between teeth as gums recede.
- Understanding these signs and symptoms allows individuals to recognize potential issues early and individuals can seek dental care and treatment upon noticing these symptoms for effective management.
Natural Remedies for Gum Health
Saltwater rinse: It is one of the most effective and handy way which help reduce inflammation, soothe gums, and kill bacteria that cause gum disease.
Aloe Vera Gel: Pure aloe vera gel soothes inflammation, heals gum tissue faster, and fights gum bacteria.
Green Tea: It is rich in antioxidants which help reduce inflammation and fight against bacterial infections.
Cloves: It is one of the most easily available and helpful antiseptics that help reduce pain, inflammation, and bacterial growth. Applying diluted clove oil to gums is one of the easiest ways to get rid of gum problems.
Oil Pulling: Consistently swishing a tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth for about 15 minutes promotes healthier gum.
Conclusion:
Maintaining healthy gums is not just about brushing your teeth, maintaining healthy gums is essential for overall oral health and well-being. Performing some basic rituals daily such as flossing, brushing twice a day, or using mouthwash can significantly reduce the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Interestingly, emerging research is exploring links between oral health and other systemic conditions:
- Some studies suggest a potential connection between poor oral health and increased risk of certain cancers, particularly pancreatic cancer.
- There’s ongoing research into the possible relationship between oral bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding these connections underscores the importance of good oral hygiene in health care. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing, and prompt treatment of oral health issues are not just about preserving your smile – they’re essential to protecting your overall health and well-being.
Also read: Effective Bedtime Routine: 8 Tips To Help You Wake Up Refreshed Every Day
