Two of the most common periodontal diseases are gum disease and tooth decay. A lot of adults believe that tooth decay is only limited to children, but that is not true. Tooth decay can occur at any age.
If you don’t take care of your teeth, the enamel of your teeth wears down. This leads to cavities. If you don’t get cavities treated right away, it can spread to your entire tooth and cause decay. The infection can then spread to your jawbone, root canal, and gums, increasing the risk of infection and gum diseases. Gum diseases and tooth decay can both cause bone loss and tooth loss.
The good news is: these two dental conditions can be easily prevented with just a few simple methods. If you follow these steps regularly and religiously, you will not become a victim of gum diseases or tooth decay.
1. Brushing
This is one of the first things you are thought in oral hygiene – brush your teeth at least twice a day. This is one of the easiest ways to make sure your teeth remain healthy and cavity-free. Brush your teeth every morning, and then every night before going to bed. This habit minimizes the build-up of plaque and bacteria in your mouth and decreases your chances of periodontal diseases and tooth decay.
2. Flossing
Just like Batman and Robin, brushing and flossing are a team as well. There are some nooks and corners in your teeth that are not accessible via a toothbrush. To make sure that all the food particles are removed from your teeth, make flossing daily a habit of yours.
3. Say No to Sugar
It is common knowledge that sugar is bad for your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth and saliva react with the starchy and sugary food that you eat and form an acid, which can eat away the outer layer of your teeth. This speeds up the process of decay.
4. Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash
If you want an extra layer of protection around your teeth and gums, then invest in an anti-bacterial mouthwash. It can help you wash away the bacteria that escaped the wrath of your toothpaste and give you fresher breath.
5. Fluoride Toothpaste
The number of brands in toothpaste is increasing every day, each claiming to be the best. One of the main things that your toothpaste should have is fluoride. It helps combat tooth decay and also strengthens your teeth.
6. Regular Visits to Your Dentist
It is very important that you visit your dentist after every six months to make sure your teeth are in the perfect condition. There are some gum diseases that don’t pain unless they have progressed. If you visit your dentist regularly, they will catch it in the early stages and treat it right away. There is no compromise when it comes to the health of your teeth.
For more information on how to maintain a healthy smile and prevent dental problems, give HPS Dental a call today! Our office is located in Shelby Township, MI and we can be reached at (248) 652-0024!
