This Is What You Can Do To Prevent Gingivitis
Everyone wants to keep their teeth healthy and white. But it's not just your teeth you need to worry about when thinking about the health of your mouth. Your gums are just as important and require their own care. Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that occurs when the gums become inflamed after a bacterial infection (via Mayo Clinic). When gingivitis is left untreated, a more serious infection called periodontitis can develop. This can cause the gums to separate from the teeth and leave the soft tissue and bone underneath exposed to harm. Serious cases of gum disease may require tooth removal.
Fortunately, gingivitis is pretty simple to prevent in the first place. Good oral hygiene is key to a healthy mouth. By brushing your teeth for two minutes at a time twice a day and flossing once a day, you can prevent bacteria growth on and in between your teeth. You should also visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist will be able to give your mouth a professional cleaning and assess the health of your teeth and gums. They can also give you further instruction on how to best care for your mouth.
How your teeth and gums are related to your overall health
Issues like gingivitis, other forms of gum disease, and cavities don't just result in sore gums and bad breath. Your dental health affects other aspects of your overall health as well. Most of the bacteria in our mouth are harmless, and daily brushing and flossing keep the levels under control. However, if you neglect your dental care, the bacteria will continue to grow and can eventually enter the bloodstream (via Mayo Clinic). This can lead to a variety of health issues including heart disease, pneumonia, pregnancy complications, and endocarditis.
On the other side, some health conditions may contribute to poor oral health. This includes health issues like diabetes, HIV/AIDs, some types of cancer, and osteoporosis. Let your dentist know if you have any of these conditions so they can create a personalized dental care plan for your needs. You should also let them know if you are regularly using painkillers, antidepressants, diuretics, or decongestants, as these can reduce saliva flow and increase the risk of bacteria multiplying in the mouth.