Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?

The simple answer to the question can gum disease be prevented is yes. That said there are lots of factors that contribute to both the onset of gum disease and its progression and if these things are not kept in check, the disease can quickly worsen.

The build up of plaque in the mouth around the base of the tooth is the main cause of gum disease. This can lead to bleeding and swollen gums. Without adequate treatment, this plaque can eat away at the tooth enamel, causing teeth to move away from the gum, loosen and fall out.

The prevention of gum disease starts at home. It is the main reason why a diligent dental hygiene routine is important. That means brushing the teeth after every meal and flossing at least once a day. Only flossing can remove the plaque that builds up in between teeth and is the main cause of gum disease.

Diet is also important. Just as it is important for your overall health to eat a balanced diet that includes lots of fruit and vegetables as well as protein from meat, eggs and fish, there are other foods and drinks that will aid the prevention of gum disease.

Green tea has become a popular drink in the last decade or so and this is a good development. Not only is green tea a much healthier substitute for tea and coffee, it also contains anti-oxidant properties. That means it will kill the bacteria in your mouth caused by eating.

If you don’t like green tea, another option is peppermint tea. Mint tea has an anti-inflammatory property which means it will soothe swollen gums. Avoid adding sugar to all your hot drinks.

Sugar is one of the elements that causes the most damage on the road to gum disease, as it is one of the main producers of the plaque that attacks teeth and gums. Eliminating sugar from your diet will certainly inhibit the production of plaque and bacteria.

Likewise starchy fried foods are bad. They also produce a film of sticky plaque which if not properly cleaned, sticks to the teeth and causes damage, which leads to gum disease.

Another good anti-oxidant is cranberry juice. But again, it’s important to drink only juice with no added sugar.

Reducing the amount of stress in your life, getting enough sleep and making time for exercise will also be very helpful in preventing the future development of gum disease.