Gum disease is a serious progressive health condition that stems from improper oral hygiene. Although the disease can cause problems like tooth and bone loss, you may be able to avoid the condition by making certain changes in your everyday routine. Here are three tips for promoting essential gum health. 

Ways to Avoid Gum Disease

1. Make Oral Hygiene a Priority

Gum disease is caused by oral bacteria that spark an inflammatory response in your gum tissue. Since oral bacteria create toxins as they grow and multiply, the gums may become red, inflamed, and prone to bleeding.

To prevent oral bacteria, brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup. Visit with your dentist regularly for checkups, and make any adjustments to your oral hygiene routine that your dentist recommends. 

2. Enjoy a Healthy Diet 

Foods that are high in sugars and simple carbohydrates fuel oral bacteria, perpetuating gum disease.

On the other hand, crunchy vegetables like celery can help to clean the teeth as you chew them, and dairy products such as cheese increase salivary flow, which helps restore the natural pH inside your mouth. Implement a healthy diet filled with vegetables, clean water, and lean proteins to keep your gums healthy and your teeth strong. 

3. Avoid Smoking

Smoking exposes your smile to stark temperature changes and a variety of pollutants, which can increase your risks of developing gum disease. In fact, smokers are twice as likely as non-smokers to develop gum disease. If you smoke, talk to your dentist about how to stop. If you don’t smoke, avoid picking up the habit to protect your smile. 

Although gum disease can be a scary diagnosis, the team at Samuel Townsley Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can treat any stage of the condition. From cleaning your teeth and treating gum inflammation to restoring teeth that have been damaged by decay, this trusted dental practice can help you create a healthier, more beautiful smile. Learn more about how they can improve your oral hygiene by visiting their website. Make an appointment at their Foley, AL, office by calling (251) 943-1521.