What Not to Do When You Have Periodontal Disease?
Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other complications. However, when managing periodontal disease, it’s not just about what you should do, it’s also about what you shouldn’t do. Yes, certain actions and habits can worsen the condition, delaying treatment from the dental office in Salt Lake City accelerates the disease’s progression.
Here are six common mistakes to avoid if you have periodontal disease and what to do instead to protect your gum health.
1. Neglecting Oral Hygiene
One of the worst things you can do when dealing with periodontal disease is to slack off on your oral hygiene routine. Skipping regular brushing or flossing allows plaque to accumulate along the gumline, exacerbating gum inflammation and infection.
Even if your gums are bleeding or feel tender, neglecting to clean your teeth properly will only make matters worse. Instead, commit to a gentle yet thorough brushing routine twice a day and floss daily. Try to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating sore gums, and consider an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning.
2. Skipping Dental Appointments
Avoiding your dentist when you have periodontal disease can be a costly mistake. Without professional care, it’s impossible to remove tartar, which contributes significantly to the progression of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for managing the condition and monitoring the health of your gums.
If you’ve been prescribed periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing, be sure to follow through. Missing these appointments can allow the disease to progress, potentially requiring more invasive interventions later. Keeping your dental appointments ensures that you stay on track with managing your gum health effectively.
3. Smoking
Smoking is a known enemy of gum health and is one of the worst habits you can maintain if you have periodontal disease. Tobacco weakens the immune system, making it harder for your gums to fight off infections or heal after treatments. Smoking also reduces blood flow to the gums, further delaying recovery and worsening the damage.
Quitting smoking is essential for managing periodontal disease and improving your overall health. You can consider seeking support from a cessation program, nicotine replacement products, or counseling to help you kick the habit for good.
4. Consuming Sugary Foods
Sugary snacks and drinks are a shortcut to worsening gum disease. In fact, sugars feed harmful bacteria in your mouth, enabling them to produce acids that attack the gums and tooth enamel. This leads to more inflammation, discomfort, and bacterial growth, which can accelerate the progression of periodontal disease.
Instead, reach for healthier options like crunchy fruits and vegetables, which can help cleanse your teeth naturally, or calcium-rich foods that strengthen your gums and teeth. Reducing your sugar intake is a small but impactful step toward better oral health.
5. Ignoring Symptoms
Swollen gums, persistent bad breath, bleeding while brushing, or loose teeth are all common signs of periodontal disease. Ignoring these symptoms in the hope that they’ll resolve on their own is a critical mistake. Periodontal disease requires active management, and delaying treatment allows the condition to worsen, increasing the likelihood of irreversible damage.
If you notice any warning signs, consult your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent the disease from progressing and reduce the need for more aggressive treatments down the line.
6. Self-Medicating Without Professional Advice
When dealing with gum disease discomfort, it’s tempting to rely on over-the-counter remedies or DIY treatments found online. However, these quick fixes rarely address the root cause of the problem and may even mask symptoms, delaying proper care. Worse, some at-home remedies can irritate gum tissue or lead to further complications.
Always seek advice from a qualified dental professional instead of attempting to self-treat periodontal disease. Your dentist can provide tailored solutions, such as medicated mouthwashes, antibiotics, or specialized procedures, to address the condition effectively and safely.
Conclusion
Managing periodontal disease isn’t just about making the right choices, it’s about avoiding damaging ones, too. By maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine, attending regular dental check-ups, avoiding harmful habits like smoking, and addressing symptoms promptly, you can prevent the disease from escalating.
