When we think about oral health, the first things that come to mind are brushing and flossing. These two habits are essential for good oral hygiene and are the foundation for healthy teeth and gums for life. However, there is a third habit that is just as important: flossing your gums. But does it have to be the only means of fighting gum disease? That’s what many people wonder when they hear that flossing your gums is one of the most important aspects of preventing periodontal disease. If you do not know what that means, read on to find out!
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, better known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding your teeth caused by bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria cause inflammation and irritation of your gums, resulting in bleeding, swelling, and a decrease in the attachment of your gums to your teeth. Gum disease is a chronic condition that can be reversed with proper treatment, but it can also be fatal if left untreated. That is why it is so important to prevent it in the first place.
How to floss your gums properly
The best way to learn how to floss your gums is to go to your dentist and have them show you first-hand. However, dentists recommend that you use a floss threader (a small loop of dental floss that makes it easier to thread floss into your back teeth and around any dental equipment you may have).
Flossing your gums is as important as flossing between your teeth, if not even more. It helps remove plaque, debris, and bacteria from between your teeth and under your gum line. It is also important to note that you should never use a metal dental floss to clean under your gum line. When cleaning under the gum line, you want to go with a soft dental floss. If you use a metal dental floss, you run the risk of damaging your gum line and even cutting into your gums.
Is flossing enough to cure gum disease?
Although flossing your gums is an excellent way to prevent gum disease, it is not enough to cure gum disease. To fully cure gum disease, you must visit your dentist at least twice a year to have your teeth and gums examined, have your teeth cleaned, and have any gum disease removed. In addition to seeing your dentist, you can also do more to prevent and even reverse gum disease.
One of the simplest things you can do is drink plenty of water. Doing so will help cleanse your mouth of harmful bacteria, which can lead to gum disease if left unchecked. Another thing you can do is eat a balanced diet. Make sure that you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fish and nuts, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids that can prevent gum disease. You can also consider adding an anti-inflammatory to your diet to help further reduce the risk of gum disease.
The benefits of fluoride
One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is to use a toothpaste with fluoride. Not only does fluoride fight bacteria and prevent gum disease, but it can also reverse the progression of gum disease if you already have it. Fluoride is a mineral that has been used in dental care products since the 1940s. It is a natural mineral that occurs in water and soil, and it is even produced by the pine trees that produce pine nuts. The main function of fluoride is to decrease the rate of tooth decay. There are a few different types of fluoride that are used in dental hygiene products (liquid, gel, and paste). The type of fluoride you should use depends on a few things, including your age and the condition of your teeth and gums.
Other ways to prevent periodontal disease
Eating a balanced diet: as we mentioned above, eating a balanced diet is a great way to prevent gum disease. Make sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, and nuts, all of which are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Using a mouthwash: using a mouthwash is another great way to keep your mouth clean and prevent gum disease. Make sure to choose one that has fluoride and antibacterial properties.
Brushing twice a day: make sure you brush your teeth and tongue twice a day for two minutes each time.
Taking care of your overall health: make sure you are taking care of your general health. This includes getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising regularly.
Visiting your dentist twice a year: make sure you visit your dentist at least twice a year. This is when they will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you have any gum disease. If you do, they will clean and treat it.
Conclusion
It can be cured if treated early enough. To prevent it from happening in the first place, you must be diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth as well as using a mouthwash and eating a balanced diet. If you already have gum disease, you must visit your dentist to have it treated. In addition, you can take the steps mentioned above to reverse the progression of the disease and even cure periodontal disease.
