Am I Doing Everything I Can to Prevent Gum Infections

Gum infections are a fairly common problem. And, many people believe that gum infections and the other signs of periodontal disease are a fact of life as we age. But, nothing could be further from the truth. Periodontal problems, including gum infections are preventable. The real question is whether or not you’re doing everything you can to prevent them.

Gum infections in adults are typically caused by receding gums. Gums recede as a result of periodontal disease, which is completely preventable through good oral hygiene. Periodontal disease starts out as simple excess bacteria in the mouth, years before you’ll usually have a problem with an infection. When this bacterium is not removed, it forms plaque on the teeth. This plaque causes gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include bad breath, sore gums and gums that bleed, particularly during brushing. If gingivitis isn’t treated, it leads to periodontal disease, in which the gums begin to recede. Gums then become very sensitive and pockets in the gums can form. It is usually in these pockets that the infections form. Periodontal disease also causes nerves to be exposed and teeth to loosen, and even fall out.

But, since all this starts with some bacteria, it’s easy to see that the key to preventing gum infection is killing that bacteria beginning years before gum disease would set in. The bacteria are killed through good oral hygiene and regular professional dental cleanings.

Some of the bacteria in the mouth will be removed through the physical act of brushing and flossing, so this should be done daily. Anti-bacterial products, like mouthwash can also kill bacteria, so using one is a good practice. And, professional dental cleanings will remove plaque that you weren’t able to get from at home oral hygiene.

Look for products made from mint oils, as these are especially effective in killing bacteria in the mouth. Many of them are all natural and they can work wonders for preventing problems down the road because they kill bacteria better than commercial products, and they don’t cause side effects.

So, if you’re not brushing twice a day, flossing daily and rinsing once or twice a day, along with visiting the dentist twice a year; you’re not doing everything you can to prevent gum infections.

But, now that you know how to fix the problem; you can begin a better oral hygiene routine right away.