4 Oral Hygiene Tips to Reverse Periodontal Disease

You might not believe that reversing periodontal disease is possible. Doing this is vital in preventing a minor cause from becoming severe. A severe case might cause tooth loss and gum recession. Bad breath, swollen gums, and other issues are never pleasant, so it is vital to know how to reverse it.

1. Seeing a dentist regularly

It is important to have regular dental cleanings to get rid of periodontal disease. The dentist will remove the plaque and bacteria that cause periodontal disease. After a cleaning and with good home care, mild gum disease can disappear. It is good to visit the dentist every six months or even more often if there is gum disease.

2. Have the right cleaning habits

Flossing and brushing at home is important for reversing periodontal disease. Patients should brush for two minutes and do it at least twice a day. It is also important to floss at least once a day. This will help to fight both tooth decay and gum disease.

A soft-bristled toothbrush should be used. It is a good idea to replace it every three to four months. If the bristles are matted or frayed, the toothbrush should be replaced even more. But if the bristles become too frayed, it might mean that the patient is applying too much pressure. That can cause gum erosion.

An antibacterial mouthwash can remove the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. This can work better than doing only flossing or brushing. It can help to reverse periodontal disease. The mouthwash should be designed for treating the condition and used as directed. Using it for 30 seconds each day can help to keep the breath fresh while killing bacteria. The mouthwash should be used after brushing.

3. Avoid smoking

Smoking can cause advanced periodontal disease, so avoid the habit to help reverse the condition. Smoking might make the immune system weaker as well. That makes it harder to fight off periodontal disease. It can also cause other health issues.

4. Reducing carbs and sugar

It is good to reduce sugary drinks and foods and refined carbs. That includes white bread. These foods can stick to the teeth and the sugar causes plaque to build up. Instead, water is a better option for drinks. It is important to eat foods high in fiber, such as vegetables and fruits.

It is also a good idea to chew sugarless gum after eating. That can neutralize the acids that cause decay. It causes the mouth to produce more saliva. Look for ones that do not have sugar and have other sweeteners instead.

Visit a dentist for periodontal disease treatment

Gum disease might cause gum recession, pain, loose teeth, and gum recession. At the end of the disease, you might also lose your teeth. For severe gum disease, the treatment might be expensive and require surgery. This is why you want to reverse it before it becomes an issue. Visiting your dentist is the first step.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

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