Unfortunately, gum disease is very common. But completely preventable.
Here are some simple ways from Ritchie Dental Group to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you keep your teeth and gums healthy, you will only need to visit the dentist for cleanings and checkups. Not major treatment.
1. Brush for two to three minutes, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline. Scrub away the fragments of food Don’t brush too hard, but be thorough. Scrubbing your gums aggressively can be painful and is a BIG don’t.
2. Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t like to floss? Try a floss holder, which makes it much easier to insert floss between teeth. But get over your aversion to flossing, unless you want tooth decay or gingivitis (gum disease).
3. Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, using a mouth rinse can prevent plaque accumulation and keep your enamel strong. Remember that fluoride mouth rinses are not the same as mouthwashes. Mouthwashes have alcohol and are designed to freshen breath. (But they can contribute to dry mouth which can cause other problems.)
4. Eat a healthy diet. Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque. A wholesome diet provides the nutrients required (Vitamins A and C, in particular) to keep teeth and gums healthy.
5. Skip cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, which may lead to gum disease or oral cancer. While you’re at it, avoid E-cigs and vapors.
6. Be aware that certain medications can also threaten oral health. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants and heart medicines. If your medications are affecting your dental health, communicate with Dr. Ritchie.
7. Exercise preventive care and schedule regular examinations — the best way to detect early signs of gum disease and make a plan to reverse it.
8. Talk to your dentist about oral health issues such as old, broken fillings or crowded teeth.
9. If you grind your teeth, speak with Dr. Ritchie about ways to safeguard your teeth.
Listed above are eight steadfast ways to ensure your teeth don’t decay, or worse, fall out completely. It’s critical to brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Bonus points for brushing and/or rinsing after lunch. Thorough, daily oral hygiene also keeps your breath fresh. Your friends, family, and co-workers will appreciate that.
