While you can't simply "clean away" established gum disease, you can significantly help prevent its progression and manage its symptoms by diligently cleaning your gums and teeth to remove the primary cause: plaque bacteria. Effective daily cleaning is crucial.
Key Steps for Managing Gum Health Through Cleaning
Maintaining a rigorous daily oral hygiene routine helps to remove the plaque bacteria that build up along the gum line and contribute to gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis).
Here’s how you can focus your cleaning efforts based on recommended practices:
- Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day. Each brushing session should last for at least two minutes to ensure adequate cleaning of all surfaces.
- Choose the Right Tools: Use either a manual or electric toothbrush. Opt for one with a small head, as this makes it easier to reach all areas of your mouth, and ensure the bristles are soft and have rounded ends to be gentle on your gums while effective at cleaning.
- Target Plaque Bacteria: The primary goal of brushing is to remove plaque build-up, especially along the gum line where it is most detrimental.
- Consider Specialized Products: Using a toothpaste specifically designed to address gum health can be beneficial. For example, using Corsodyl Complete Protection Toothpaste is recommended. This toothpaste works by physically removing the build-up of plaque bacteria along the gum line. This action is important because it helps to maintain the tight seal between your gums and teeth, which is vital for preventing bacteria from getting underneath the gum line and causing further issues.
Why Cleaning is Essential
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed through daily brushing and cleaning, these bacteria can irritate your gums, leading to inflammation, bleeding (gingivitis), and eventually, if left untreated, more severe forms of gum disease that can damage the bone supporting your teeth.
By consistently and effectively cleaning your gums and teeth, you directly address the bacterial cause of gum disease, helping to keep your gums healthy and prevent the condition from worsening. Remember that while cleaning is essential, professional dental care is also critical for managing gum disease.
