Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, a common oral health issue among adults. It occurs when dental plaque, a sticky biofilm, builds up along the gumline and causes redness, inflammation, and bleeding. Gingivitis is reversible with the proper care, but the more advanced periodontitis is not, so it's essential to take preventive steps as soon as possible. Here's a look at some basic gum health maintenance tips. 

How to Prevent Gum Disease

1. Brush and Floss Every Day

The most direct way you can remove plaque is to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and gently floss between the teeth and along the gumline daily. Daily plaque elimination prevents the majority of the biofilm from building up and hardening into tartar, which forms below the gumline and is only removable by a dentist. 

Both plaque and tartar contribute to gum tissue irritation, inflammation, tenderness, and bleeding. Eventually, infection will occur, leading to gum disease.

2. Consume Mouth-Healthy Foods

Plaque feeds on sugary food particles and releases decay-causing acids that wear on tooth enamel and gum tissue. Gum disease prevention requires limiting your intake of sweet treats and simple carbs. 

Instead, you should focus on foods that naturally clean the teeth. Abrasive fruits, crunchy vegetables, seeds, cheese, and fresh herbs are among the best natural teeth cleaners. 

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Water flushes food particles and bacteria from the mouth before plaque can feed on them. It also promotes healthy saliva production to further protect your mouth against tooth decay and gum health issues. Saliva not only cleans the mouth but also contains enzymes that neutralize decay-causing acids. 

4. Avoid Tobacco 

Smoking cigarettes reduces blood circulation in the gums and weakens the immune system to delay healing from gingivitis and mouth injuries. The chemicals in most tobacco products also irritate gum tissue and cause bleeding, recession, and inflammation, especially oral products, such as chews and snuffs. Since smoking impacts your overall as well as your dental health, look for healthy ways to quit, including patches and gum. 

5. Schedule Routine Dental Cleanings 

Biannual deep teeth cleanings by a dentist are the final step to removing tartar from under your gumline to keep the tissue pink and healthy. The dental professional will also identify any signs of gingivitis, such as inflammation and redness, before they can worsen. If you do exhibit symptoms, they'll likely recommend a medicated, anti-tartar mouth rinse to use after brushing and flossing. 

Prevent gum disease with routine cleanings and checkups from William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD. For more than 35 years, this dentist has provided Jackson and Chillicothe, OH, residents with dental services for patients of all ages, including emergency care. Call (740) 772-2225 today to make an appointment, or visit the website to learn more about the practice. Like the Facebook page for more dental hygiene tips.