Essential Ways to Reduce Gum Inflammation
Did you know that keeping your gums healthy can protect other areas of your body? When gum inflammation occurs, it may cause systemic inflammation that affects both your short and long-term health outcomes. It's for this reason that the periodontics field is so important. Periodontists play a role in reducing gum inflammation and responding when those inflammatory processes cause problems. If you want to play your own role in keeping inflammation at bay, here are some ways you can do so.
Brush Gently
Brushing in itself is a great way to keep gum inflammation at bay. However, if you're being too vigorous, then you may still be causing some harm. Although you should still continue to brush at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, you don't need to attack your gums with fervour. Instead, apply gentle pressure that should feel sufficient for dislodging any food that's there. You might also want to switch to a softer brush. One of the simplest ways to moderate the strength with which you brush your teeth is to switch to an electric toothbrush.
Change Your Diet
Making small adjustments to your diet can help keep your gums healthy. Vitamin C plays a role in growing healthy gum tissue, which in turn means a reduced likelihood of inflammation. Start looking at ways to get more vitamin C into your diet, such as adding citrus fruits or broccoli. If necessary, you can take a supplement. Another nutrient you should prioritise is calcium. Calcium offers protection to your jawbone and teeth, which in turn keeps your gums healthy. If you don't drink milk, look for fortified alternatives or fortified supplements.
Tackle Your Stress
Are you aware that stress can increase your risk of gum inflammation? When you're already suffering from gum disease, stress can go a long way toward making it worse. The additional inflammation arises as a result of a hormone called cortisol. Try looking into de-stressing activities such as exercise and meditation. If possible, remove the stressor from your life or reduce your exposure to it.
It also helps to educate yourself on some of the earlier signs of inflammation. You may start to notice that your gums are redder than usual or that you experience bleeding when brushing them. If this happens, make an appointment with your dentist so that they can look into the underlying issue. The sooner you find a resolution, the easier it will be to resolve.