The value of flossing and maintaining healthy gums

Gum health is a significant component of overall oral health. Although most people brush their teeth on a regular basis, it is not unusual for people to floss less often. This is unfortunate because flossing is the most effective way to keep your smile looking good by avoiding gum disease and deterioration between teeth.

What are the causes of gum disease?

Plaque on the teeth and under the gums causes gum disease. Sticky plaque forms when bacteria in your mouth mix with saliva and food particles, clinging to your teeth, particularly around the gum line. If plaque is not removed, gums will turn red and swollen, potentially leading to tooth decay and further irritation of the gums.

Cleaning your teeth with a toothbrush will strip plaque from the surface of your teeth, but it will skip a lot of the nooks and crannies. Flossing enters the difficult-to-reach areas between teeth and prevents plaque buildup along the gum line. This is why flossing is so vital for keeping your gums safe.

Gum disease stages

Keeping your gums safe will not only enhance the appearance of your smile, but it can also improve your overall health. Gum disease can put you at risk for heart disease and respiratory infections, among other things.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main stages of gum disease.

• Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that begins in the early stages. The gums become red, swollen, and irritated as a result of this condition. Bleeding gums after brushing is one of the most common signs that you have gingivitis. It may also cause gums to recede from teeth, allowing plaque to develop on exposed root surfaces. This can result in bad breath, a worsening of the problem, and additional complications.
• Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that develops when gingivitis is not treated. It's a dangerous disease that affects the tooth's supporting tissues and bone. When gingivitis is not treated, the gum pulls away from the tooth, causing pockets to form. Bacteria thrive in these pockets, which invade the soft tissue surrounding the tooth and, ultimately, the bone. Teeth begin to loosen in the mouth and can gradually fall out.

Gum disease treatment options

Gingivitis is a relatively simple condition to treat. A skilled cleaning by your dentist or oral hygienist is a good place to start. Improve your oral hygiene practises by brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Recurrence is also less likely if you eat a balanced diet.

A skilled clean is also needed for periodontitis, which involves deep scaling and root preparation to clean between the gums and teeth all the way down to the roots. In extreme cases, surgery to remove all bacteria may be needed. Soft tissue grafts are sometimes needed. Following care, it's important to maintain a better oral hygiene routine.

What should I do to avoid gum disease?

Cleaning your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly is the easiest way to avoid gum disease. Clean the teeth for two or three minutes at a time, make sure the toothbrush head runs along the gum line, pointing towards the gums, so the bristles get under the gums. It's also a good idea to use mouthwash as a final phase in the procedure.

There are also several lifestyle choices that can help avoid gum disease: don't smoke, don't drink too much alcohol, eat a balanced, low-sugar diet, and exercise on a regular basis.

Visiting the dentist twice a year for a check-up is, of course, the easiest way to detect any issues. Include a professional cleaning in your appointment to keep your gums safe and remove any residue that has formed on your teeth.

Your dentist will be able to teach you how to clean and floss your teeth properly.

Find your nearest Dentist in Indiranagar at Tooth Affair.

At Tooth Affair, we are known for providing the best dental health care services to all individuals. Backed by a state of the art infrastructural facility and a dedicated & well-trained staff, our dental care center has carved a niche in the industry by offering excellent Oral and Dental services at all levels. We believe in serving our patients with utmost care and concern. The dental specialists at Tooth Affair use most advanced equipment and technology to give you the award-winning smile and attractive look.

 Contact now to book an appointment at - +91 7676 206 206