oral cavity (2)

Gum disease is inflammation of the gums that occurs because of an increased number of bacteria in the oral cavity. This condition affects many people all over the world, with approximately 50% of adults experiencing gingivitis during their life. However, there seem to be many misconceptions about gum disease. To help you stay on the safe side, we have gathered these six debunked myths about gum disease that you shouldn't believe in.

1. Gum disease is uncommon

Many people think that gum disease affects only smokers or old people. But as mentioned above, up to 50 percent of adults can develop gum disease throughout their lives. Tsi means that every second person has an increased likelihood of gum disease. You should also know that this condition can affect children as well. This is because kids usually neglect proper oral hygiene and this can result in bacteria overgrowth. 

2. Gum bleeding is normal

One of the most common misconceptions about the gums is that gum bleeding that occurs during tooth brushing or on its own is normal and doesn’t indicate any issues. But the reality is that gum bleeding is considered one of the most common signs of gingivitis (the initial stage of gum disease). You should know that timely and correct gingivitis treatment can help cope with gum disease and prevent the development of severe complications. 

3. Gum disease always causes severe symptoms

Even though inflamed gums are usually bleeding, red, and swollen, initial gum disease can develop asymptomatically for some time. In this case, only a dentist can notice signs of early gum disease. Additionally, some people may have asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP). This condition is a bacterial infection of the root canal system that causes persistent inflammation and destruction of the apical periodontium.

4. Gum disease can be left untreated

Some people believe that gum disease is a minor infection and it can be left untreated without any consequences. But the truth is that untreated gum disease can’t disappear on its own but it can cause tooth loss. This is because the infection destroys gums that hold your teeth in place. If you develop advanced gum disease, your teeth may lose their support and fall out. Additionally, you may develop bone loss that can complicate the installation of dental implants. 

5. Gum disease affects only teeth and gums

Indeed, gum disease usually causes obvious signs in the oral cavity. But it doesn’t mean that this condition doesn't affect your overall health. The point is that gum disease promotes the spread of bacteria throughout your body. That’s why people with gum disease are more likely to develop respiratory infections, stroke, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, gum disease increases your risk of diabetes and diabetes also promotes the development of gum disease. 

6. Gum disease always leads to tooth loss

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, it doesn't always mean that you will lose your teeth soon. As mentioned above, only severe gum disease that wasn’t treated in time can lead to tooth loss. So if you have noticed early signs of gingivitis (gum redness, swelling, bleeding, bad breath, and receding gums), it is better to contact a periodontist as soon as possible. A doctor can recommend the most effective treatment plan to save your teeth and gums. 

The bottom line

It is essential to understand that gum disease is a quite serious infection that affects many people. Timely and proper treatment can help ease its symptoms and prevent the development of severe complications. If you already have gum disease, you should contact a periodontist to define the best treatment options. 

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There are a lot of conditions that can significantly affect the condition of your oral cavity. The point is that most of them occur because of poor oral care. If you want to avoid them, keep reading these seven effective tips on how to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day

Proper tooth brushing is one of the most important parts of proper oral care. You should understand that your mouth is full of bacteria that are fed on dental plaque and food particles. If you don’t remove them regularly, they will multiply actively. Poor oral hygiene is deemed the most common cause of tooth decay, gum disease, tartar accumulation, discolored teeth, and other oral issues. That’s why it is essential to brush your teeth twice a day.  

2. Don’t neglect to floss

Dental floss is a thin soft thread that is used to remove dental plaque and food particles that get stuck between your teeth. The point is that even the most thorough toothbrushing can’t guarantee the complete removal of this debris from your mouth. So you need to use dental floss at least once a day. Additionally, if you tend to use wooden toothpicks to remove pieces of food from your teeth, you should replace them with dental floss. 

3. Drink a lot of water

Insufficient hydration is a quite common issue for many people. In addition to multiple negative effects of dehydration on your overall health, it can also significantly affect the condition of your teeth and gums. Water helps produce saliva that flushes bacteria, food particles, and dental plaque from your mouth. You should also know that dehydration can cause dry mouth, bad breath, and increase the likelihood of oral infections. 

4. Maintain a healthy diet

The foods and drinks you consume have a great impact on your teeth and gums. For example, if your diet is full of acids and sugar, it is not surprising that you can be prone to tooth decay and gum disease. To keep your oral cavity strong and healthy, you need to eat:

  • Crunchy vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Leafy greens
  • Dairy products
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Oily fish
  • Eggs

Additionally, it is better to avoid or at least limit the consumption of junk foods, soda water, coffee, and sweets (especially sticky). 

5. Consider fluoride treatment

Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help prevent the development of cavities. This mineral can be found in tap water, bottled water, some kinds of toothpaste, and mouthwashes. Additionally, you can ask your dentist about fluoride treatment. During this procedure, a dentist or hygienist will apply a high concentration of fluoride to your teeth to reduce the risk of tooth decay. 

6. Undergo professional teeth cleaning

Many people have tartar accumulation between their teeth and near the gum line. It is essential to understand that tartar is a calcified deposit that occurs when dental plaque hardens. The point is that tartar build-up increases your risk of gum disease since it creates a perfect environment for bacteria. 

7. Visit your dentist on a regular basis

Regular dental check-ups are essential for healthy teeth and gums. The point is that only a professional dentist can recognize early signs of many oral issues and perform the proper treatment. That’s why it is better to visit a dentist at least twice a year. 

The bottom line

It may seem that proper oral care requires a lot of time and effort. But the reality is that it is much more difficult (and expensive) to treat oral issues rather than prevent them. That’s why you need to maintain proper oral hygiene, drink enough water, eat healthy foods, and visit your dentist on a regular basis. 

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