Toothaches can be painful and annoying, but gum problems are no different. Severe gum problems can affect the nerves, bones and tissues around your mouth and cause pain and bad breath. Fortunately, there are five things you can do to prevent gum issues.
1: The Buildup of Plaque in Your Teeth
Plaque is the yellowish film of bacteria that forms on one’s teeth. The bacteria produce acids when a person eats or drinks, destroying the tooth enamel and resulting in cavities, tooth decay, or gingivitis. Besides the teeth, plaque can also appear under the gums, later breaking down the teeth themselves. Be sure to take care of your smile by brushing your teeth religiously, flossing, and rinsing correctly. Follow up with regular checkups with our dentist to spot hard-to-see gum problems while they are still in the early stages.
2: Smoking Habit
Smoking makes your gums weak and causes plaque. The nicotine and other chemicals found in cigarettes and other tobacco products reduce saliva flow in your mouth. Because of that, bacteria can stick easily in your teeth and gums. Gum issues do not heal as fast as those in non-smokers, because smoking causes the bloodstream to lose its much-needed oxygen, failing to function properly.
3: Hormonal Changes (For Women)
If you are a woman, hormonal changes are something you cannot control but it makes you more prone to gum problems. During your menstrual cycle or pregnancy, your body parts, including the gums, become more sensitive making them susceptible to gum diseases. During these hormonal shifts, it is vital to take extra care of your oral health and see your dentist as soon as you notice unusual changes in your gums.
4: Lack of Certain Nutrients
What you eat can affect what happens to your mouth. A diet rich in vitamin C can help make your gums stronger. Vitamin C helps keep all connective tissue in the gums and also the teeth healthy and strong. With enough vitamin C, your teeth and gum should be healthy without bleeding or sensitivities. Avoid too many sweets, sugar, and carbohydrates that can ruin your teeth and gums. When eating any of these products, drink lots of water and clean your teeth afterward.
5: Misaligned Teeth
Teeth are sharp, and they can hurt your mouth, especially when they are crooked or not in their proper position. When you have crooked teeth, you are more prone to damaging the insides of your mouth. Food particles can get stuck in your teeth, potentially triggering bacteria buildup and causing teeth and gum problems later. Pay extra attention to your mouth if you have crooked teeth and get the dental care you need as soon as possible to prevent further issues.
Conclusion
Properly caring for your teeth and trying your best to maintain good oral health can prevent you from experiencing annoying gum problems later. Should you experience any dental emergency, make sure to visit your dentist promptly. If you are looking for a Raleigh emergency dentist, Dr. Mihirgir Bava and team in Raleigh, NC, can help! Please call 919-872-1700 for more information or to schedule a visit!