Lifestyle Changes can Reduce Risk of Tooth and Gum Disease
Tooth and gum disease, or periodontal disease as those in the business refer to it as, is one of the most frequently diagnosed dental diseases. But, it doesn’t have to be. Reducing the risk of developing tooth and gum disease can be achieved through making healthier lifestyle choices that not only improve oral hygiene, but overall health.
Tooth and gum disease is caused by bacteria being trapped on the teeth by a build-up of plaque. This bacterium produces a toxic acid that attacks the teeth and gums, causing swollen and bleeding gums, the degradation of bone density in the jaw, and eventually the loss of teeth. Left untreated, tooth and gum disease can lead to heart attack, stroke, diabetes and respiratory diseases.
There are several lifestyles changes that can be made to prevent or reduce the onset of this all-to-common dental disease. One way is to put an end to all forms of tobacco use. A recent study concluded that cigarette, cigar and pipe smokers, both current and former, have higher incidents of tooth and gum disease than those who have never smoked. Smokeless tobacco, or chewing tobacco, is equally as damaging if not more, as it is placed directly on the gums.
Another way to help prevent tooth and gum disease is to change eating habits. Foods and drinks that are high in sugar actually cause the bacteria trapped in plaque to produce more of the damaging acids then do non-sweet foods. Although it’s difficult to eliminate these foods from one’s diet, a commitment to not eating them between meals will greatly reduce daily intake and the risk of tooth and gum disease.
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