Gum infection occurs when the soft tissue around teeth gets damaged due to the buildup of harmful bacteria. Also referred to as “gum disease” or “periodontal disease,” this oral health issue can be prevented with good oral hygiene practices.

Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on the surfaces of teeth. It’s made up of food deposits, mucus, and harmful bacteria. When not removed, plaque calcifies and turns into tartar, giving bad bacteria more opportunities to multiply and spread. As plaque and tartar remain in the mouth, they irritate the gums, leading to infection.

The mouth is naturally filled with bacteria. Sugar and starchy deposits serve as food for harmful bacteria, accelerating their growth. The good news is, gum infections can be prevented. You can keep your gum tissues healthy with the help of these tips.

1. Boost Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Daily brushing and flossing can help protect your mouth against gum disease. Brushing twice daily—in the morning and before sleeping—can get rid of plaque buildup on teeth and keep food deposits from getting stuck.

Consider using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head so you can reach farther areas and preserve the enamel. Aggressive brushing or brushing too hard can cause the gums to recede and leave spaces where deposits can get trapped.

2. Floss Daily

Several studies show that regular flossing reduces gum disease as compared to brushing alone.

This habit gets rid of food debris and plaque on teeth and along the gumline, areas that the toothbrush won’t reach. More debris removed means there is less chance of developing bad breath and irritating the gums.

Flossing at least once a day before brushing or before bedtime keeps plaque from accumulating. You may consult your dentist about the different types of floss and which one is the most appropriate for your needs.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking makes a person twice as likely to develop gum disease as compared to nonsmokers.

Bacterial plaque is more likely to accumulate among smokers. The longer a person smokes, the higher their chances of getting an oral health disease. Tobacco also weakens the immune system.

The carbon monoxide in their bloodstream makes it harder to deliver oxygen to the different body parts. This interferes with the body’s ability to fight infections and recover from damage.

4. Limit Your Intake of Sugary and Starchy Foods

Harmful bacteria feed on sugary and starchy foods. Avoid snacking on these food types and limit your daily intake.

Indulge in sweets during mealtimes when saliva production is high. The longer these deposits stay in the mouth, the more plaque is produced in the mouth as well.

5. Clean Dental Appliances

If you’re wearing dentures or any removable oral appliance, make sure to clean them properly.

Debris and plaque can also build up on these devices and increase your chances of developing gum infections.

Follow care instructions from your dentist to extend the lifespan of your device and protect your oral health.

6. Drink Plenty of Water

Not everyone is fond of drinking plain water. But this is one of the simplest ways to prevent gum infections and boost your dental care routine.

Water keeps the mouth moist and strengthens the enamel against acid attacks. It helps dislodge food that otherwise could get trapped and reduces acid levels in the mouth.

Drinking water after meals also keeps food deposits from settling on teeth. It is important to note that brushing right away isn’t ideal, as it can contribute to enamel erosion. For the best results, it is best to wait at least 30 minutes after a meal to brush teeth.

7. Finally, Seek the Advice of an Oral Healthcare Professional

If you have a medical condition or are at an increased risk of developing gum disease, it helps to work closely with the dentist so they can monitor your oral health. They can also provide you with tailored recommendations for boosting your dental care routine.

Are You Looking to See a Dentist in Pinehurst and Woodlands, TX?

Happy Sapiens is a trusted dental office in Pinehurst and Woodlands, TX. To learn more about gum disease and how you can prevent it, get in touch with our team today. We’re pleased to answer your questions about improving gum and mouth health. You may also follow our blogs for more information on good dental care practices.

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