September is National Gum Care Month, and now is a perfect time to brush up on the habits that can keep your mouth clean, healthy, and prevent any form of gum disease!
What is Gum Disease?
Tooth be told, Gum Disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a mouth infection that affects nearly half of adults in America. Preventing gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease is important to prevent periodontal disease, a serious infection in the gums, which can lead to tooth loss. The warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease can include bad breath, and swollen, red, bleeding, tender, receding, or irritated gums. Early recognition and action are the most important steps to maintain healthy gums, and a healthy body too!
How can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Here is a simple list to follow to maintain healthy, lifelong teeth and gums!
- Brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day
- Limiting your consumption of foods and beverages containing high sugar
- Visiting your dentist for cleanings and checkups every 6 months
- Incorporating mouthwash into your daily routine
Is Mouthwash Worth it?
Incorporating mouthwash with fluoride into your daily oral care routine is a beneficial way to freshen your breath, kill harmful bacteria, and prevent gum disease and tooth loss. Mouthwash with fluoride has been shown to help rebuild weakened tooth enamel, reverse early stages of tooth decay, and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, cavities, and gingivitis. Among those benefits, mouthwash has the capability to reach all areas of your mouth as a liquid. It can reach the places you might not regularly brush like, the roof of your mouth, your inner cheeks, and your tongue. Some might say, a mouth wash a day, keeps the gingivitis away!
All puns aside, if you have questions about your oral care, please ask us!
