Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues around the teeth. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. It is caused by plaque, which is the sticky film of bacteria that forms in the mouth. If gum disease is not treated, it can lead to periodontitis, a dental condition where pus collects deep in the gums. When periodontitis occurs, the teeth become highly sensitive to pressure. They may become loose and eventually fall out.
Gum disease should not be taken lightly. In addition to periodontitis, it can lead to other serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, respiratory infections, diabetes, and premature birth in pregnant women.
- Brush right – Properly brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day can prevent gum disease.
- Get the gum line – Most people brush their teeth only, but it is important to attend to the gum line, too. The gum line is where plaque starts to form and gingivitis begins. The toothbrush should hit the teeth at a 45 degree angle to allow half of the brush to clean the teeth and the other half to clean the gums.
- Use two toothbrushes alternately – A toothbrush will be more effective when it has time to dry in between uses. Try alternating between two toothbrushes, allowing each one to dry thoroughly while the other is in use.
- Keep your toothbrush germ-free – Storing your toothbrush in closed containers promotes the growth of germs. If you are using two toothbrushes, keep them in separate containers and store them in an upright position.
You can use a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. If you opt for the manual option, however, you may need to work a little harder to maintain good form. An electric toothbrush is also beneficial to people with limited manual dexterity.