Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages. It occurs when the gums become infected and inflamed and can lead to serious health problems if not treated. Some symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, tooth loss, and more.
There are a number of common causes of gum disease, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, and diabetes. However, many young professionals think they are too busy to worry about their oral health. Gum disease is a real threat to your oral health and can lead to serious consequences down the road if it is not treated properly.
This can affect your work in a number of ways. For example, it can make it difficult to speak clearly or chew food properly. It can also lead to bad breath, which can be embarrassing and make it difficult to maintain professional relationships. In extreme cases, gum disease can even lead to tooth loss, which can seriously impact your ability to work. If you are experiencing gum disease symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Moreover, here are some tips on how to avoid gum disease:
Brush Twice a Day
The first step in avoiding gum disease is brushing your teeth at least two times a day. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many people do not brush their teeth as often as they should. Brushing your teeth twice a day helps remove plaque and bacteria from your mouth, which prevents gum disease.
To brush your teeth properly, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste. Rub the toothpaste into your teeth in a circular motion, making sure to brush on the gum line. The circular motion helps the bristles reach all of your teeth, including the hard-to-reach areas in the back of your mouth. It also helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Be sure to brush your tongue, too, as bacteria can build up on it. Spit out the toothpaste after brushing.
Use Floss Daily
In addition to brushing your teeth, you should also floss daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where brushing cannot reach. Plaque and bacteria can sometimes accumulate in these areas, leading to gum disease.
There are many types of floss, but the most effective type is dental floss. Dental floss is specifically designed to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. It comes in various flavors, so it can be fun to use. Be sure to use a new strand of floss every time you floss to avoid spreading bacteria.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Another important step in avoiding gum disease is to visit the dentist regularly. Dentists can clean your teeth and remove any buildup of plaque or tartar. They can also identify any early signs of gum disease by looking for signs of inflammation in the gums and checking for pockets of bacteria around the teeth. They may also take a sample of your saliva to test for bacteria.
If you are showing signs of gum disease, your dentist may provide treatment to prevent it from getting worse. Antibiotics may be prescribed to kill the bacteria that is causing the infection. On the other hand, scaling is a process in which the dentist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth with special tools. Lastly, root planing is a process in which the dentist smoothes out the roots of the teeth to make it harder for bacteria to accumulate there. If these measures do not work, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue and restore the health of the gums.
Another possible treatment option that your dentist may suggest is dental implants. These are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. They act as anchors for the replacement teeth and help keep the gums healthy and free from bacteria. If you are considering dental implants to prevent gum disease, be sure to discuss all of your options with your dentist.
The Bottom Line
Gum disease is a serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss and other complications if it is not treated properly. However, there are steps that you can take to avoid gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day, use floss daily, and visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. By following these tips, you can help keep your mouth healthy and avoid gum disease.
