Our teeth play an important role throughout our lives, it's quite surprising that generally people take much less care of their teeth than they do on cosmetic grooming. There is also concern that although most people take regular care of their teeth, there is not as much emphasis placed on the care of our gums.
Our gums act as a barrier to protect the deeper tissue and the roots of our teeth from attack from bacteria. Gingivitis occurs when bacteria is left to settle on the gum line causing inflammation. If left untreated Gingivitis can cause problems such as bas breath, bleeding gums and potentially tooth loss.
According to a recent study conducted by the American Dental Association only half of Americans brush their teeth the recommended twice a day. The ADA also discovered that approximately 50% of adults also suffer with Gingivitis. This is an interesting correlation, and other studies have suggested that with a regular oral care routine can eliminate gum disease.
|Percent of women who brush their teeth twice a day||58 %|
|Percent of men who brush their teeth twice a day||49 %|
|Percent of women with Gingivitis||45 %|
|Percent of men with Gingivitis||52 %|
Gingivitis is not usually painful for sufferers, however there are visible symptoms. As with all dental complaints, the earlier an issue is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin, and potentially limit the damage caused.
- Swollen gums that may be dark red in colour and tender to touch or when eating. Healthy gums will normally be a light pink.
- Bleeding at the gum line when brushing, flossing or eating
- Receeding or lifted gums. Gums should be tight against the base of the teeth.
- Due to bacteria collecting in pockets in the gums, bad breath can be an ongoing issue
- Even in early stages prolonged bad tastes can be noticed.
- Brush your teeth the recommended two times a day. Preferrably with a baking soda based toothpaste.
- Brush or chew gum containing xylitol after meals.
- Floss teeth at least once a day - removing bacteria from hard to reach areas reduces the likelihood of bacteria buildup on the gums.
- After brushing and eating, use a quality mouth wash to eliminate bacteria.
- Drink water regularly - as well as having general health benefits, water can dislodge trapped food and bacteria.
- Chew gum containing Xylitol throughout the day - Xylitol is a non-fermentable sugar. Bacteria in the mouth cannot use it as an energy source, reducing acidity levels in the mouth and allow remineralisation to occur.
- Limit smoking or stop completley - along with sugary foods and drinks, smoking is attributed to a wide range of dental complications.
- Keep up to date with dental check ups, visit the hygienist regularly. Dental checkups are important to diagnose a range of dental complications early.
Advanced Gingivitis can lead to peridontal disease and eventually tooth loss. It is important that you maintain a good oral care routine.
For more information on dental treatments, products, prices and reviews check out the Complete Dental Guide . A great online resource for impartial information.