One common dental issue for kids, teens, and adults in bleeding gums. Often times gums will bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. You might shrug it off and think it isn’t a concern, but bleeding gums are usually a sign of a larger issue with your dental health. Periodontal diseases like periodontitis or gingivitis are diseases that affect the gums. The most common signs of these diseases are redness, inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. If your gums are bleeding consistently it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Consider booking a dental cleaning to learn more about your specific issue. Here are a few techniques you can use to improve your oral health and stop your gums from getting infected.
It goes without saying, but the first thing you should always do if you have an issue with your oral health is to increase your oral health habits. Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day. Gum disease is caused by the growth of bacteria around the edges of your teeth, by brushing and flossing you can remove the bacteria. If you are brushing and flossing actively make sure to address your technique and replace your toothbrush routinely to ensure your teeth are getting the proper care they need.
Mouthwashes and hydrogen peroxide are strong disinfectants for the mouth. Rinsing your moth with either after brushing and flossing can get rid of the bacteria you may have missed when brushing and flossing. Do not swallow mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide as it can cause issues in your body.
Aside from removing harmful bacteria from our mouths. it is also important to increase helpful vitamins and nutrients that can make our gums and teeth stronger. Vitamin K, for example, helps your blood clot and can decrease gum bleeding. You can get vitamin K from a variety of vegetables including kale and spinach. Vitamin C can improve your immune system and fight off infections. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, peppers, and carrots. Historically, vitamin C deficiencies led to gum diseases including scurvy, and although scurvy is fairly uncommon nowadays, getting your recommended daily amount mount of vitamin C can help improve gum health.
If you are an active smoker, you have a heightened risk for gum disease, as well as heart conditions, lung cancer, and oral cancers. According to the CDC, smoking is a leading cause of gum disease in American adults. Quitting smoking can decrease the potential risk for gum disease and other health conditions linked to tobacco.
Studies have shown that emotional stress has a negative impact on our immune systems. This means that stress can lead to a lot of negative physical conditions. Practicing routines that help manage and decrease your stress is an effective way to boost your immune system and live a healthier life.
The best way to take care of your teeth and gums is to have a dentist perform a regular checkup. Regular dental exams can help prevent disease and damage to your gums and teeth by providing a professional cleaning and advice on how to improve your oral health. To sign up for an appointment please contact us through our website.
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