How To Prevent Periodontitis
Periodontitis is one of the major causes of tooth loss in adults. This is a gum disease that weakens the bone and the surrounding tissues supporting a tooth, leading to tooth loss. If left untreated, periodontitis worsens not only your dental health, but it can even lead to serious ailments such as heart disease and stroke.
Causes of periodontitis
Poor oral hygiene is primarily responsible for this gum disease. Periodontitis is caused by the destructive activities of bacteria that thrive in the plague and tartar formed in the gum line. When we eat foods rich in sugar, refined carbohydrates and starches, the bacteria in the mouth acts on these foods, forming plague. This sticky substance forms a coating on the gum line. If the plague is not removed, it hardens within two to three days to form tartar. The longer the tartar remains on the teeth, the greater will be the extent of damage.
In the initial stage, it will cause gingivitis, characterized by gum inflammation and gum bleeding. If left untreated, recurrent gum inflammation will form pocket between the gum and the tooth, where more bacteria will accumulate. As the pocket becomes deeper, the bacteria will enter the gum tissue, destroying the soft tissues and the bones holding the tooth. Although, plague and tartar formation on the teeth are usually associated with periodontitis, tooth loss occurs only when the the oral bacteria become extremely destructive.
Periodontitis prevention
By following a regular oral hygiene schedule, this disease could be prevented. Regular flossing would help to remove the plague from the teeth. By flossing, you can remove the plague before it hardens into tartar. Once tartar develops in the gum, you will need professional help to remove it. You should use a soft toothbrush for brushing your teeth. To reduce the risk of periodontitis, brush your teeth at least twice everyday. If possible, brush your teeth after having a sugary or starchy snack. Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash could minimize the risk of plague formation. To prevent gum infection, increase intake of vitamin C rich foods. Rinsing your mouth with warm saline water could cure your gum problems.
