Preventing gum sores is important. While you may think it is only a minor irritation, it could be a sign of something more serious. Gum sores and other problems hiding in mouth recesses and behind or between teeth can symptoms of gum disease, gum cancer, and cavities.

Who is at Risk?
You may be more at risk of developing gum disease and even cavities if you do or have any of the following:

• Smoke or chew tobacco – Smoking causes or contributes to not only cancer and lung and heart disease but also gum disease, gum cancer, and canker sores.
• Hormonal changes – Women become more vulnerable to gum disease during changes in their hormonal levels. Periods of high risk include menopause, puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation.
• Poor Diet and/or nutrition – Eating healthy is a common preventive remedy for many potential health problems. Eating improperly by consuming foods high in sugar and preservatives increases your risk of various dental problems including gum disease
• Medication – certain kinds of drugs may increase the risk of gum disease and other dental issues. Such medications include those used in treating arthritis and high blood pressure. Research indicates that some types of birth control are also high risk factors

Yet, those individuals at highest risk of developing dental problems may not smoke. They may eat a healthy diet, not be on any form of medication, or even have any visible health problems. What puts them at high risk for gum sores and dental problems is their failure to take proper care of their teeth and gums. If you wish to prevent gum sores, gum disease and cavities, you need to adopt a proper system of oral hygiene.

Oral Hygiene – Preventing Gum Sores
The best means you have to fight against gum sores, cavities, and gum disease is an effective system of oral hygiene. To accomplish this, you need to purchase the right tools. These consist of:

• One soft-bristled toothbrush – hard bristles harm the gums and scratch the teeth. Gums can develop sores, become red and bleed. Talk to your dentist about what is the right toothbrush. Be sure to replace it every 2 or 3 months
• A tube of quality toothpaste – research first, including online and talking to your dentist. Toothpaste contains various questionable chemicals and even sugars. Alternatives are possible. You can use either something you find at home e.g. baking soda or an all-natural product such as OraMD.
• Floss – Purchase quality floss of the right thickness. Too thick floss causes irritation creating red and bleeding gums.
• Mouthwash – Mouthwashes come in a various types. While some simply rinse their mouths with water or salt and water, others choose a commercial product. If you decide on a brand name product choose one without alcohol. Alcohol can actually create the right environment for bacterial growth. Some other products, such as OraMD, can act as both toothpaste and mouthwash without causing dental problems such as sensitive gums.

Conclusion
If you wish to successfully prevent gums sores and other problems, do more than pay lip service to oral hygiene. Be sure to brush, floss, and rinse several times a day, every day. Don’t stop here, either. Eat healthy food and make an appointment to see your dentist at least annually for a check-up. You also need to visit your dentist or an oral hygienist yearly for a cleaning.