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Imagine brushing your teeth one day, only to discover a small amount of blood on your toothbrush. It’s a scenario that most people may have experienced at least once in their lifetime. While often considered benign, gum disease can become a nuisance if not treated. Ignoring it could lead to complications such as periodontal disease and severe tooth loss. The next time you experience bleeding gums, remember these tips to ensure that your teeth stay healthy and strong.
How to prevent Bleeding Gums
1. Good oral hygiene is key
Studies show that bleeding gums are caused by a significant amount of plaque, which itself carries enough bacteria to weaken the gum line. Without good oral hygiene, bacteria can spread inside the mouth, thus causing gum disease. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day. Flossing helps, too, since it removes food particles trapped between teeth.
2. Ditch the sugar
As sad as it may sound, sugary foods do not provide gums with enough nutrition needed to function well. The next time you’re tempted to eat candy or drink a glass of soda, reflect on the state of your gums. As an alternative, head to the salad bar and help yourself to a nice serving of fruits and vegetables. Maintaining a diet of whole foods is highly recommended.
3. Say goodbye to tobacco
It shouldn’t be a surprise that smoking is bad for your health. In this case, it is also detrimental to your teeth. Similar to consuming sugar, smoking prohibits gums from receiving enough nutrition. Quit now while it’s early.
4. Take the necessary vitamins
Dental experts agree that a proper dose of Vitamin C helps to strengthen the body’s immune system. Foods rich in Vitamin C include carrots, guavas, chili peppers, and citrus fruits. Also consider Vitamin K, which also heals bleeding gums. A few examples of foods rich in Vitamin K are kale, raw spinach, beef liver, and avocado.
5. Practice effective stress management
Research shows that emotional stress may serve as a trigger for periodontal disease. Not only does stress affect the body’s immune system, but it also produces a hormone called cortisol, which increases inflammation of the gums. While the study findings are still generally unverified, there is no denying the negative impact of stress on the average person’s body.
6. Home remedies should do the trick
Perhaps the answer to your gum problems is in your refrigerator all along. Ice cubes can alleviate the bleeding. Hold it against your gums for 10 minutes until the blood goes away. Other home remedies to try include gargling a solution of salt and hot water, as well as applying turmeric paste along the affected area.
7. Seek professional help
Wait for the bleeding to cease in seven to ten days. If it doesn’t, consult your family dentist as soon as possible. Reliable dental services like Laguna Vista Dental, for example, will be able to solve any gum-related problems. With the help of your dentist, you can look forward to brushing your teeth without the fear of bleeding. Now, smile away!
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