Everyone wants a beautiful, white smile and healthy, strong teeth, and to maintain them for as long as possible. But healthy teeth are impossible without healthy gums. So, let's talk about periodontitis.
What is it? How does it occur? What are the possible prevention options? How can it be treated?
According to statistics, the rate of oral diseases in Russia is significantly higher than in Europe and the United States. This is all due to poor oral hygiene. Many people still believe that in the past, people didn't brush their teeth, and they remained healthy for life. This is one of the common myths.
Throughout human history, the health of teeth and gums has been directly linked to oral hygiene. Since ancient times, oral hygiene has been the primary means of preventing dental diseases. References to dental care and related products can be found in written sources from Ancient Egypt, where the world's first tooth powders were prepared.
Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in people over 35. Ninety percent of adults suffer from gum disease. Since the early stages are painless, many people do not seek dental care.
Bleeding gums, tartar, loose teeth, bad breath, sore gums, discharge between teeth—at least one of these symptoms is familiar to everyone. And once again, the microbes that form plaque are to blame. If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should consult a dentist.
The initial stage of gum disease is gingivitis—inflammation and bleeding of the gums. At this stage, the disease is reversible. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, the inflammation spreads deeper into the gums, and the disease progresses to the next stage—periodontitis. This is accompanied by the destruction of the ligaments that hold the teeth in place and the destruction of the jawbone in which the teeth are anchored. Teeth begin to loosen and may even fall out.
In order to prevent gum disease and improve their condition, careful prevention is necessary:
• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, using a medium-hard toothbrush that's in good condition. Your toothbrush should be replaced 2-3 times a year. You can also use an irrigator to massage your gums and more thoroughly remove plaque.
• Clean between your teeth with dental floss after every meal. It is advisable to use mouthwash during the day when it is not possible to brush your teeth after meals.
• Balance your diet. Solid foods should be included in your diet.
• Take vitamin complexes twice a year (autumn, spring).
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups. Professional teeth cleaning is recommended twice a year.
• It is advisable to quit smoking. It has a detrimental effect on the gums and causes them to regenerate.
There are many folk remedies that can help keep your gums healthy:
• After eating, you can rinse your mouth with herbal infusions of calendula, chamomile, sage, and oak bark. You can use green tea.
• Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent remedy. Once a week, brush your teeth well with a soft brush, after dipping it in 3% hydrogen peroxide, or rinse your mouth (1-2 tablespoons per half glass of water).
• Gum massage is essential for preventing periodontitis. You can massage your gums with a mixture of salt and honey or olive oil and lemon juice. Or at least rinse your mouth with extra virgin olive oil.
• The only folk remedy for bone tissue restoration is comfrey. Rinse your mouth with the decoction twice a day.
• In spring it is very useful to chew fresh pine needles and birch buds.
Good health to you!