Gum disease can compromise your overall health in many ways and may persist without any noticeable initial symptoms. Prevention is key when it comes to treating gum disease, and you can take steps to keep this problem from ever occurring. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, there are some things that you can do to keep your gums safe. Here are five great ways to avoid gum disease.
Chew Sugarless Gum
Saliva production can be stimulated by chewing on a piece of sugarless gum. The extra saliva can keep you from getting dry mouth, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply and attack your gums. Saliva production is also effective in washing away food particles that may further contribute to gum disease.
Drink More Tea
Prevention.com states that drinking green and black teas regularly is another great way to avoid gum disease. These particular teas contain the antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols, which keep plaque from adhering to teeth. Less plaque in your mouth will do wonders for your gums.
Increase Your Supplement Intake
Getting enough of the right nutritional supplements can also do you good. Vitamin C supplements are great for increasing collagen production and preventing illnesses that may harm your gums. Gum inflammation can be reduced with omega-3 acids. Other recommended supplements for gum health include iron, folate and protein.
Clean Dental Appliances Regularly
According to Airport Road Dental Associates, if you wear a retainer, dentures or other dental appliances, they should be taken out and cleaned regularly to eliminate the germs that are linked to gum disease. Some of these appliances can be soaked in a cleansing solution overnight. You should also make sure that these appliances fit properly to prevent gum sores that may cause periodontitis or gingivitis.
Use a Gum Stimulator
This small handheld appliance can massage the gums and remove food particles that are stuck between teeth. Use the rubber point on the end of the device to go over the area of each tooth in a circular motion for 10 seconds. A gum stimulator should be used in addition to a toothbrush to clean the inside of your mouth and prevent gum disease.
Keeping gum disease at bay is possible if you take proper care of your teeth and gums on a regular basis. These prevention methods can be made part of your daily oral hygiene routine and will make a big difference.