The New Year is here and what better way to start it off than with a beaming, healthy smile? At Liverpool Dental Spa, we firmly believe that prevention is better than cure and we do all we can to help our patients remain disease free. If you have concerns about gum disease or you’d like to find out more about how you can prevent gum disease in Liverpool, here are some simple tips:
Focus on brushing and flossing: good oral hygiene is the most effective means of keeping gum disease at bay. The good news is that it only takes a few minutes to make a difference and simply spending 2 minutes every morning and evening brushing your teeth will help to reduce the risk of plaque formation. Plaque is a sticky substance that contains harmful bacteria. It is the leading cause of decay and gum disease. Our brushing tips include brushing thoroughly, but not firmly, and using fluoride toothpaste. We also recommend using inter-dental brushes or dental floss to clean in between the teeth.
Change your eating habits: most people are aware that what they eat has a bearing on their oral health, but did you know that it’s also really important to think about when you eat. The frequency that you eat actually has a greater influence on your health than what you eat and this is because your enamel temporarily softens when you eat as a result of bacteria in the mouth releasing acids. If you snack throughout the day, this means that the enamel is constantly soft and weak. Leaving time between meals enables the enamel to recover. If you do fancy a snack or you need something to keep you going, try to avoid anything acidic or sugary.
Look out for the warning signs: often, time is of the essence when it comes to gum disease, as it can progress fairly quickly. If you have an idea of the signs you should be looking out for, this will enable you to seek help from your dentist at an early stage when it’s still possible to reverse the effects of gum disease. Gingivitis, the mild form of gum disease, is usually easy to manage, but if it is left alone it can turn into advanced gum disease, known as periodontal disease. If you notice bleeding when you brush or your gums feel sore, tender or swollen, call and arrange an appointment.
