Mnay people ask how to stop gum disease. This condition is usually fairly easily recognized in that the first symptoms are swollen red gums, rather than firm , pink ones which is their normal state. Bad breath may also be a problem. Gum disease (the early stage is called gingivitis) can be difficult to detect as it advances very slowly and is a painless condition.



Do you think gum disease is something that only happens to people your grandparents' age. The gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist. The earlier that it is caught, the better.

Dental treatment will be necessary for even mild gingivitis and a visit is recmmended even if you only suspect that you have it. Better to be sure! If the disease gets worse, then you may have to visit a gum specialist (periodontist) who will treat you for periodontitis. Early prevention is the golden rule and that means daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to your dental hygienist.

What are the causes of gum disease? Plaque, which is a sticky substance, will build up on the teeth and if left, will become tartar which is a problem for smokers. Hundreds of bacteria are usually present in plaque. Smokers are going to suffer a lot more with the build up of tartar on their teeth and around the neck of the tooth. Other causes are chemiotherapy, oral contraceptives and bridges which do not fit well anymore.

What is the best way to prevent gum disease? Brushing teeth at least twice a day and preferably after each meal. Dental cleaning needs to be done every six months or once a year. The important thing to remember is that as bone loss advances with age, then your teeth are losing that essential support. Once teeth have lost that support, then they have to be taken out so that the health of the mouth is preserved.

Red wine has now made its debut as a cure all and therefore it is not surprising to find it here ! A Canadian study has found that certain chemicals in red wine may help to prevent this condition but the acidic content of red wine may cause other problems. Similarly components in melatonin and even in ordinary antacids have been found to help bone formation and also stimulate the body's defense systems.

Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay. Always brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride; some dentists also recommend daily mouth rinses containing fluoride. Hundreds of types of bacteria live in the mouth, so keeping plaque at bay is a constant battle. Sometimes your dentist will also prescribe antibiotics or a special antibacterial mouth rinse to tackle the problem.

Longer term measures are to try and keep well and to de-stress (which is not always easy). Anything which compromises your immune system will have anegative effect on your body maintenance and that includes gums. Needless to say smoking is not recommended!