Of all of the mouth diseases, the common ones, gingivitis and gum disease are the most easily treated and prevented. Part of the reason why they have become so prevalent in recent history is the lifestyles many of us live this modern, hurried world. As a society, many of us have gotten away from the simple, healthy routines. No one is suggesting your throw out your TV or computer, but there are adjustments that can be made to improve the oral health situation without sacrificing modern convenience. Let’s take a look at a few of the ways our current world is adversely affecting our dental health.

• Poor diets
• Tobacco use
• Commercial toothpaste

Gingivitis and gum disease are only encouraged by poor nutrition. In a world where we know more than ever about what is healthy for our bodies, we also have access to more junk food than ever before. Eating healthy food is so important to keeping the immune system active and strong. Not only will a strong immune system protect us from things as simple as the common cold, but it will also limit or eliminate the damage the gum disease causing bacteria is able to do to our mouths. It certainly wouldn’t inconvenience anyone to eat healthier and improve gum health at the same time.

Using tobacco in any of its forms is a no go for gingivitis and gum disease prevention. The occurrence of dry mouth and risk of other mouth issues is enough to convince anyone that this habit is bad for you. The use of tobacco also limits oxygen flow to the teeth and gums, allowing the bacteria to have a prefect breeding ground. The dry mouth caused by smoking also interferes with the body’s ability to produce saliva and saliva is the biggest natural ally you have in the fight against gum disease.

There was a time when people didn’t pick up their toothpaste at the local drugstore. That would be because there wasn’t one. Back then, roots, essential oils, and all natural cleanser were the rule of the day. Considering that many of the ingredients found in commercially developed toothpaste is potentially toxic, getting rid of this particular convenience isn’t a bad thing. Gingivitis and gum disease are best prevented with a clean, healthy mouth.