2 Tips To Help Prevent Gum Disease

Proper brushing, flossing, and checkups by a dentist are important steps to have healthy teeth and gums. Fortunately, most people understand the importance of these tasks. However, half of Americans have some form of gum disease. This condition not only causes pain and bleeding of the gums, but it can also lead to the loss of one or more teeth. Even if you brush and floss and visit your dentist, other steps can help prevent the development of gum disease. Here are a few other ways you can reduce your risk of gum disease.

1. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling may be a trendy habit that many celebrities enjoy, but it can be an effective way to rid your mouth of the plaque and bacteria that causes gum disease. Of course, you may not actually understand what oil pulling entails.

Basically, the oil pulling process involves swishing a teaspoon of coconut, olive, or sesame oil around in the mouth for a few minutes. This swishing motion "pulls" stubborn food residue, plaque, and bacteria out of the mouth. Many experts believe oil pulling will also absorb stains from the teeth, whitening and brightening your smile with continuous use.

When you are pulling, be sure to spit the oil out into a trash can once you are complete. Then, rinse your mouth out with warm water before brushing your teeth as normal.

2. Supplements

Eating a well-balanced diet is beneficial for your basic health, but it can also improve your oral health. Unfortunately, it is easier to eat better on some days than others, but incorporating a few dietary supplements into your routine can help.

CoQ10 is a must-have supplement because it enhances your body's immune system in drastic ways. Without a proper immune system, your body cannot fight off infections. Therefore, you are at a greater risk of developing gum disease.

To reduce inflammation that can occur in your gum tissue, take a daily selenium supplement. Selenium is an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be found in nuts if you prefer to eat instead of taking the actual dietary supplement.

Lastly, add grapefruit seed extract to your regimen. This extract can be added to your yogurt, eggs, water, or dropped onto a dollop of toothpaste before brushing your teeth. Grapefruit seed extract contains antibacterial agents, which destroy bacteria before it can infect and inflame your gum tissue.

Preventing gum disease is possible, but it will require some knowledge and effort. This guide and your dentist can help improve the look and underlying health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. Check out a website like http://westlakesfamilydental.com/ for more information and assistance.