Perhaps you know it as gingivitis, or maybe periodontal disease – either way, gum disease is nothing to smile about. It can range from mild to severe, and it affects us more than we realize. Early-stage gum disease, when it is called gingivitis, is easily treatable. If left untreated, however, it can progress to periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss and even damage to the jawbone. It is important to prevent gum disease from happening at all, and thankfully, there are easy ways to do this at home.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a condition that affects your gums, aka the tissue surrounding your teeth. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Generally, you remove this through regular brushing and flossing. However, most of us don’t get all of it. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums. As already mentioned, the early stage of the disease is called gingivitis, and is characterized by red, swollen gums that typically bleed easily. Contributing factors to the development of gum disease are smoking, hormonal changes, medications that reduce the flow of saliva, genetic susceptibility, and certain diseases such as diabetes.
Preventing Gum Disease
The main way to manage gum disease is by practicing good oral hygiene. This means regularly brushing and flossing your teeth to remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also further reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly – at least once a year – for check-ups and professional cleaning. Arguably one of the most important factors in oral hygiene, however, is your diet. What you eat and drink regularly has a huge impact on the health of your teeth and gums. Diets high in processed, sugary foods and drinks damage the teeth and gums, whereas a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports gum health. A healthy diet will also improve the immune system’s ability to fight off infections. Good oral hygiene and a healthy diet are the top ways to reduce your gum disease risk and maintain a sparkling, healthy smile.
Home Remedies
Eating well and maintaining an appropriate oral care routine are sufficient for reducing your risk of gingivitis and gum disease. If you wish to take it a step further, however, or if you notice that your gums might be a bit inflamed, there are some easy, inexpensive things you can do at home to improve your gum health. Choose the one that suits you best and, of course, consult your dentist should your condition not improve or worsen.
Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is a simple, antiseptic solution for the prevention of gum disease. Salt is a natural antiseptic and can therefore help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gums. To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm, filtered water. Swish the solution around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. You can repeat this process daily, or even both morning and night. The rinse helps to soothe irritated gums, reduce swelling, and flush out unwanted bacteria.