How to Get Rid of Periodontal Disease: 8 Steps to Follow

Introduction

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and tissues around the teeth that can cause serious damage to your oral health. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, and in extreme cases, even jawbone deterioration. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable and treatable. In this article, we’ll explore eight tips for getting rid of periodontal disease.

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

Regular brushing and flossing is essential for keeping your gums healthy and preventing periodontal disease. Brushing helps remove plaque and food particles from the surface of your teeth, while flossing removes any leftover particles stuck between your teeth. Together, these two practices help to keep your gums free of bacteria and reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

When brushing and flossing, make sure to do it correctly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and brush gently in circular motions. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the back molars, and don’t forget to brush your tongue as well. When flossing, use an 18-inch strand of floss and wrap it around each finger. Gently move the floss up and down between each tooth, and make sure to reach below the gum line.

Visit Your Dentist for Professional Cleaning

Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings is also important for preventing and treating periodontal disease. During a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove any built-up plaque and tartar, which are both major contributors to periodontal disease. They will also check for signs of gum disease and provide you with advice on how to keep your gums healthy.

During a professional cleaning, your dentist will use specialized tools to scrape away any plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. They may also use an ultrasonic device to break up any large deposits. Once they’ve finished cleaning your teeth, they will use a polishing paste to smooth out the surface of your teeth and make them look brighter.

Avoid Sugary Drinks and Foods

Sugary drinks and foods can contribute to periodontal disease by providing the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria feed on sugar, so the more sugar you consume, the more bacteria there will be in your mouth. This can lead to plaque buildup and eventually periodontal disease.

To protect your gums from periodontal disease, try to limit your intake of sugary drinks and foods. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea, and choose snacks like fruits and vegetables instead of candy or cookies. If you do indulge in sweet treats, make sure to brush and floss afterwards to remove any leftover sugar.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for periodontal disease. Not only does it increase your risk of developing the disease, it also makes it harder for your body to fight off existing infections. So if you’re a smoker, now is the time to quit.

Quitting smoking can be difficult, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Start by talking to your doctor about quitting aids like nicotine patches or gum. You can also join a support group to get encouragement and advice from others who have successfully quit. Finally, make sure to find activities that will help distract you from cravings, such as exercising or reading.

Try Home Remedies

There are a number of home remedies that can help get rid of periodontal disease. Common home remedies include using saltwater rinses, oil pulling, and baking soda. Saltwater rinses can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, while oil pulling can help remove plaque and toxins from your mouth. Baking soda can help neutralize acids and remove plaque.

While home remedies can be effective, it’s important to remember that they should not take the place of professional dental care. If you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease, such as pain or bleeding gums, see your dentist right away.

Use Antibacterial Mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help get rid of periodontal disease. These mouthwashes contain active ingredients that help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Look for a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, both of which have been proven to be effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis.

When using an antibacterial mouthwash, make sure to follow the instructions on the package. Generally, you should swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Make sure to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using the mouthwash.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can cause significant damage to your oral health. To get rid of periodontal disease, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist for professional cleanings, avoiding sugary drinks and foods, and quitting smoking. You can also try home remedies and use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

Remember, even if you follow all of these steps, it’s still important to seek professional dental care if you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease. With the right treatment, you can get rid of periodontal disease and keep your gums healthy.