The first step to preventing gum disease is having a clear understanding of just what it is that can cause it. While the first step to preventing it is making sure you have a good oral routine in place that you follow each and every day. This routine will, of course, include brushing, flossing and rinsing well. Aside from a good routine, there are more things you should be aware of that will help and you can learn about them right here:
Using tobacco products can negatively affect your oral health in many ways
When you are concerned about the possibility of developing gum disease and you are a smoker, quitting all nicotine products is one of the best things you can do. Using tobacco products not only increases your chances of gum disease, but it also stains your teeth, gives you bad breath, dries out your mouth more and increases your chances for different types of cancers, including oral cancer.
Teeth that aren't set straight in the gums can increase your chances for gum disease
If you have teeth that are crooked, then it can increase the chances of you finding yourself dealing with gum disease. This is due to the plaque that can hide in the crevices created in your teeth from overlapping. You may want to start using a water pick as soon as possible to try to get in those areas, but you may still not be able to get it all. Increasing your professional cleanings at your dentist's office is another good idea. However, the best thing you can do is undergo treatment to straighten your teeth, so you can completely put this problem behind you.
Pregnancy can temporarily increase the chances of gum disease
When you are pregnant, your body will change in many ways and in some cases, this can leave you more open to certain problems, with an increased chance of gum disease being one of them. Make sure you are taking in the proper nutrients suggested by your doctor and your dentist during your pregnancy. You should also be going in for oral exams regularly throughout the pregnancy to avoid issues like this.
Some medications will put you at more of a risk for gum disease
There are some types of medications, such as steroids, that can leave you more susceptible to gum disease. Always learn about the possible side effects and risks of all medications you are on. If you learn that one or more of them increases your chances of gum disease then you may want to ask your doctor if there is an alternative to that medication. If not, then increase your professional cleanings, make sure you don't skip on your own oral routine and eat more foods known for being teeth-healthy.
Share18 November 2017
Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.