Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and a majority of adults suffer from some form of it. The good news is that you can treat and even reverse gum disease, simply by educating yourself and making a consistent effort to take care of your teeth and gums.

Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day. Brushing helps remove plaque from your teeth, while flossing removes it from between your teeth and along your gums. Getting rid of plaque daily will prevent it from hardening and turning into tartar, which requires a dentist's help to remove. If you can't brush after every meal, rinsing your mouth with water will help remove leftover food particles. Check with your dentist for a recommendation on toothbrushes. Some dentists recommend electric brushes, and others prefer brushes with an extra-small head that help you access your mouth's hard-to-reach spots. Brush your entire mouth thoroughly, both on the inside and the outside of your teeth, for two to three minutes. Rinse thoroughly after you brush, and use a mouthwash daily. Since bacteria in your mouth cause gum disease, use an anti-microbial mouthwash. Look for mouthwashes that contain peppermint or spearmint oils, which also help fight bacteria.

Food and Drink

Drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet. The saliva you'll generate from food and proper hydration helps your gums fight off bacteria. Getting all of the nutrients your body needs will help keep your mouth healthy, too. However, avoid food and drink with a high sugar content, since they contribute to tooth decay.

Your Dentist

Visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings. If the dentist sees signs of gum disease, he or she may ask you to come in regularly---perhaps every three months---for cleanings. Your dentist may also recommend a deep cleaning, which includes using dental tools to remove tartar under the gum line. To minimize discomfort, many dentists will spread a deep cleaning across multiple sessions, one or two quadrants at a time.

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How To Fight Gum Disease

Fighting Gum Disease: How To Keep Your Teeth

Fight Gum Disease