A large number of adults in Australia experience gum disease. According to a study published in the Australian Dental Journal, slightly less than 20% have gingivitis, while 22% have had the disease progress to periodontitis. If you are dealing with gum disease, your dentist may recommend a mouthwash to help combat the infection. Here are five reasons this is an effective way to care for your mouth.
An antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent gingivitis. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. This is caused by bacteria in your mouth forming a layer of plaque along the gum line. This plaque irritates the gums, causing them to be inflamed. They may bleed when you brush your teeth. But good oral hygiene can control the bacteria that cause plaque. Using an antiseptic mouthwash as well as brushing, flossing, and regular dentist visits can help keep your gums healthy.
It can add protection if you’re in a high-risk group. Smokers, people with diabetes, those who have a suppressed immune system, and people who are genetically predisposed are more likely to develop gum disease. If you are in any of these groups, mouthwash is an extra line of defense against developing an infection.
Gingivitis can be reversed. If you have already developed gingivitis, you will need treatment to keep it from getting worse. The good news is that with proper dental care, your gums can recover. An antiseptic mouthwash provides a powerful defense by killing bacteria and helping your gums heal.
Periodontitis can be controlled. Once gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, you will have to work with your dentist to stop it from progressing. Without care, you run the risk of losing teeth. Antiseptic mouthwash can be vital at this stage because pockets form in gum tissue that cannot be reached with brushing and flossing alone. Mouthwash will keep bacteria levels down in your mouth, protecting gum tissue and bone from further attack.
Helps protect against other diseases. There is growing evidence that periodontal disease increases the risk of many other diseases. Just some of the problems that are associated are cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, stroke, preterm birth, and stomach ulcers. It has also been shown to make blood sugar control worse in people with diabetes. Gum disease seems to worsen these problems because bacteria get into the bloodstream through infected gums and attack other parts of the body. Fighting back against oral bacteria with antiseptic mouthwash is not only protects your gums but the health of your whole body.
Good oral hygiene and excellent dental care is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. To see how we can help you prevent or treat gum disease, please contact us at Morrin Dental.