Many dental experts claim that gum disease is linked with poor general health .Here are some things you can do on a daily basis to help you brush up on your dental health:
Brush twice a day
Brushing at least twice a day is important, particularly after breakfast, which for a large percentage of the British population involves relatively large amounts of sugar and acid in the form of sugary cereals and juice, and after dinner, when unbrushed teeth would have to spend a whole night with food residue attached to them. Complex carbohydrates are transformed into sugars by the amylase in your saliva and if these remain in your mouth overnight your teeth will slowly begin to decay.
Floss
Brushing on its own, isn’t enough as it can sometimes be tricky cleaning out those bits from certain foods that get stuck between your teeth, which is why it’s important to floss. Some studies suggest that using small interdental brushes may do a better job than floss.
Mouthwash
Many people believe that antiseptic mouthwash on a daily basis may help prevent gum disease. Some antiseptic mouthwashes reduce the amount of plaque bacteria when combined with regular brushing and flossing. However, there isn’t currently enough evidence to say whether mouthwash can help prevent gum disease
Visit the dentist at least once a year. A dentist can detect excessive build-up of plaque and remove tartar (calculus). Early or mild gingivitis can be detected and treated to prevent the more severe periodontitis.
Cornerhouse Dental’s, Andre Potieger said: “Although there is no clear evidence that gum disease is linked with poor oral hygiene its clear that people can reduce their risk of periodontal disease by regularly visiting the dentist.
“If every patient attends regular check-ups, treatment for periodontal disease may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s important for people to go through basic periodontal screening at least once a year, so that a thorough inspection can be done and any potential problems can be picked up.
If you are worried about gum disease and poor oral health talk to a member of the team who will be able to advise you.