Even if you've heard of gum disease, do you really know what it is? Because if you have it, you might not even know. Early-stage gum disease isn't obvious and doesn't cause pain.
A leading cause of tooth loss in adults, gum disease starts with bacterial plaque buildup. The plaque can harden into dental tartar, and you might experience swollen gum tissue. You can reverse early-stage gum disease known as gingivitis with our 5-minute at-home healthy-gum process.
However, you'll need professional treatment if gingivitis develops into periodontitis, the next gum disease stage. Periodontitis can result in the development of periodontal pockets and bone loss, which could lead to tooth loss. That's why gums matter.
So, you should talk to your dental professionals if you experience:
You can prevent gum disease or reverse gingivitis with simple steps that take just a few minutes. And, yes, these steps are also the best way to keep your teeth decay-free.
So, for five minutes each day:
Did You Know? You should brush twice a day for two minutes each time, spending 30 seconds on each quarter of your teeth.
To ensure your gum-healthy routine is working, visit your dentist regularly for checkups. These visits are also essential for regular professional cleanings that remove every bit of plaque and tartar that slipped by you.
Though five minutes or less is what you need at the very least, you can also make conscious lifestyle choices that will further strengthen your gums and teeth:
If you plan on keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime, give your gums some loving care for 0.0035 percent of each 1,440-minute day. That's not a lot of time, and it will save you countless hours you'd need for gum disease treatments. Healthy gums = happy teeth!
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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