Other than expecting autumn leaves and fall weather, September is also known as Gum Care Month. One statistic that might surprise you is the fact that almost half of American adults over 30 years old are struggling with periodontal disease. For this reason, it’s important to understand your risk factors and the best methods for maintaining a healthier smile. Read on to learn several little-known facts about gum disease and how to preserve your oral health.
Gum Disease Is Usually Silent
Periodontal problems can often sneak up on you when you aren’t paying attention. This is because you may not even notice any changes, pain, or discomfort until the situation has already progressed further. That’s why you should visit your dentist every six months or sooner for checkups and teeth cleanings. Not only will they thoroughly polish your pearly whites, but they’ll also monitor your gums to see if there are any underlying issues or tell-tale signs of periodontal disease. If they do detect something, they can provide early preventive measures to avoid future complications.
Gum Health Involves More Than Simply Brushing
Brushing your teeth is one of the most important ways to keep your smile clean and healthy. However, this alone won’t maintain all of your pearly whites. To remove debris and bacteria from between your teeth and underneath the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach, flossing is key. You’ll also want to rinse with ADA-approved mouthwash and visit your dentist twice a year for checkups.
Stress Negatively Impacts Gum Health
While stress can often influence our mental and emotional well-being, it can also significantly impact our oral health. This is because chronic tension can often weaken the immune system, which can then leave your gums susceptible to bacteria and infection. You may even begin habits like clenching and grinding your teeth, exacerbating any complications with your periodontal health. To minimize these issues, try implementing stress-relieving activities such as meditation and yoga to promote better gum and overall health.
Smoking Is a Major Risk Factor
Most people know that smoking can leave you vulnerable to various problems, including oral cancer. Using tobacco products can end up weakening your immune system and making it more difficult to fight against infections, such as gum disease. Furthermore, smoking can interfere with blood circulation, which can then delay your healing process. To improve your gums and overall well-being, it’s best to quit this habit altogether.
A Healthy Diet Is Key for Gum Health
Food always plays an important role in the health of your smile. Overindulging in sugary and starchy treats can make it easier for harmful bacteria to eat away at your tooth enamel and gumline. By implementing healthier food options like veggies, fruits, and lean meats, you can promote better gum health and a stronger immune system this month and beyond.
About the Practice
At Cross Creek Dental Care, we offer completely customized care for every patient. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and techniques to help maintain smiles, and we focus heavily on educating people on the best ways to preserve their teeth and gums for the long term. If you’d like to know more about improving your periodontal health or want to schedule a visit, check out our website or call our office at 740-392-6156.