Did you know that the leading cause of premature tooth loss for adult patients is actually gum disease? When your gum tissue is infected or damaged, it is not able to adequately support your teeth, and your oral health overall.
That is why our Elmhurst gum disease dentists have put together this short list of things that you can do to battle gum disease.
Rinse religiously
Don’t let acidic or sugary substances sit on your smile for long. Get into the habit of rinsing your mouth with water or a specially formulated mouthwash to minimize the amount of damage that bacteria are able to do.
Floss regularly
The ADA recommends that patients floss once a day, ideally when you are cleaning your smile before bed. Additionally, you should use floss, rather than pointy toothpicks, to dislodge food particles and dental debris. Pointy dental tools can damage gum tissue, and make it easier for oral bacteria to infiltrate your smile.
Incorporate mouth rinse
There are mouth rinses on the market to address everything from dental staining to dry mouth. Choosing the right formulation can make a huge difference to your oral health. Talk to your dental team if you aren’t sure what type of rinse is best for your smile.
Choose water
When you drink plenty of water, your body is able to produce saliva, which is your body’s natural way of neutralizing bacteria. Every time that you pick water over a sugary or acidic beverage, you are protecting your oral health. Plus, the very act of drinking water help to clear away bacteria and food particles.
Our Elmhurst dentists offer effective treatment options for existing oral health infections. We can also give you additional tips on how to optimize your oral health routine and daily habits. Just give us a call to get started!