Simple Steps to Prevent Gingivitis and
Periodontal Disease
Despite the
serious consequences of gum disease, it can usually be
prevented by following some simple
steps.
Floss
One of the most important things you can do to prevent gum
disease is to floss daily before you brush. The best time to
floss (if you're only going to do it once a day) is in the
evening before you retire.
Most people who have gum disease didn't floss properly. You
miss nearly 40% of tooth surfaces when you brush without
flossing. Imagine washing only 60% of your body, while missing
the other 40% day after day. Sooner or later, people will
notice. The same thing happens in your mouth as bacteria build
up between your teeth, leading to gum disease.
Dentists suggest that you floss at least once a
day. Better yet, floss each time before you brush. If you
have trouble using floss because your teeth are closely
spaced, try Glide® dental floss -- it's made of teflon so
it slides easily between your teeth. Do not traumatize
yourself getting the floss in. Remember, the cleaning
takes place on the outward sweep. In order to clean both
sides, insert the floss twice into each space between
your teeth (the interdental space).
If you really don't like using dental floss, try
an electric flosser like the Braun Interclean®, which
makes flossing quick and easy.
Dentists tell you to floss.
But they make a lot more money when you
don't.
Brush Your Teeth Properly
This sounds easy, but the fact is that when it comes to
tooth brushing, most people do an unsatisfactory job. It takes
2 minutes to brush all your tooth surfaces, yet most people
spend 30 seconds or less brushing. As a result, they miss the
same spots day after day, allowing plaque bacteria to
thrive.
The next time you brush your teeth, take a timer along to
make sure you brush for two minutes. You'll be surprised how
long this seems.
Dentists and pharmacies have plaque disclosing tablets.
These tablets contain a harmless red dye which sticks to
plaque, thus indicating areas of plaque buildup on your teeth.
These are the areas you are missing when you brush. Ask your
dentist to give you a refresher course in proper flossing and
toothbrushing technique.
Many dentists suggest electric toothbrushes for more
thorough cleaning. Electric brushes such as Braun Oral-B® and
Sonicare® have built in timers that tell you when you've
brushed for 2 minutes. Unlike manual toothbrushes, electrical
toothbrushes can remove plaque that resides just below the gum
line. This will help you avoid gum disease.
Use a Toothpaste Which Fights Gum
Disease
All toothpastes are not alike. Recent studies
show that SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), an ingredient
found in more than 99% of all toothpastes, actually helps
promote periodontal disease.
SLS is a cheap, strong synthetic detergent which
is used in floor cleaners, hand soaps, shampoos, and
toothpastes. It is used to do tough cleaning jobs.
Unfortunately, SLS is a persistent irritant which
contributes to inflammation of gums and susceptibility to
gum disease.
The best thing to do about SLS is to avoid it.
The best SLS-free toothpaste is Enamel Saver®. Instead of
SLS, Enamel Saver® has a patented foaming system which
strengthens oral mucosa. No other toothpaste has this
system.
Enamel Saver® has 36 percent by weight of
natural Xylitol. No other toothpaste has anywhere
near this amount. Clinical studies show natural
Xylitol reduces plaque and plaque acids. Less
plaque means:
- fewer
cavities
- healthier
gums
- fresher breath
Enamel Saver® Mouth Friendly® Toothpaste prevents gum
disease and improves the condition of those who have it by
reducing bleeding, inflammation, and plaque. And it's so
pleasant to use that you're more likely to floss and brush
properly. Kids love Enamel Saver, too.
What Users Say About Enamel Saver®
Toothpaste
I started using Enamel Saver® about 4 years
ago, on the advice of a friend. At first I was
skeptical, but within several weeks I noticed my gums
were tighter, less "flabby." Another week or so
brought a complete cessation of the bleeding which
used to happen when I chewed on a crisp
apple.
Objective confirmation of my improvement came from my
dental hygienist and the periodontist who comes in after
the cleaning and checks my mouth. And I have maintained
that improvement ever since!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Enamel Saver!
Barry Brownstein
Elkins Park, PA
I started using Enamel Saver® Toothpaste nearly 4 years
ago, after its inventor, Dr. Edward Cutler, paid me a
visit. The information about the product was appealing --
reduction of tooth decay and plaque, good tasting, low
abrasion. But would it stop my gums from bleeding?
Well, I wasn't certain anything miraculous would happen,
but to my surprise, after only one week of using Enamel
Saver, I noticed a marked difference in the appearance of
my mouth. My teeth were definitely whiter, plaque build-up
was reduced, and the bleeding that I frequently experienced
when I brushed was gone. And I've never had a bleeding
problem since! My periodontist, whom I see twice a year,
says I no longer need gum surgery.
I hope Enamel Saver will always be sold, because I'm
hooked! My family and I love the taste, too.
Robert Loreaux
Radnor, PA
My dentist gave me my first tube of Enamel Saver®
Toothpaste over 2 years ago, and I have used only Enamel
Saver ever since -- it's wonderful! I used to get a rash
around the outside of my mouth (perioral dermatitis), but
no more! I used to have painful, inflamed gums and lots of
plaque, but no more! My periodontist and hygienist also
confirm the improvement. When I wake up in the morning, my
teeth are nice and smooth -- they no longer have the fuzzy
coating of plaque which they used to have before I started
using your product. My mouth feels a lot different since I
started using Enamel Saver -- smooth, clean, and pain-free.
Thanks a billion!
Elaine Frayman
Beachwood, OH
Avoid Certain Drugs
Tobacco contains nicotine which is a potent constrictor of
blood vessels, including those in the mouth. Inadequate blood
flow through the gums makes them susceptible to gum disease.
Nicotine patches and nicotine gum should be used for as brief a
period as possible. Certain illegal drugs are potent blood
vessel constrictors, too.
Long term use of certain prescription drugs can
cause dry mouth, which can make you more susceptible to
tooth decay and gum disease. Here is a partial list of
such drugs:
- antidepressants
- antihistamines
- antihypertensives
- antispasmodics
- decongestants
- muscle
relaxants
- tranquilizers
If you are taking any drug on a long term basis, talk
with your physician to find out whether dry mouth is a possible
side effect.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
Your dentist plays a crucial role in the prevention of gum
disease. Through routine checkups, your dentist can identify
and remove areas of tartar buildup. Remember, you cannot brush
tartar away. Only your dentist can remove it. By examining your
gums and probing pocket depths, your dentist can determine if
you have gum disease. This is extremely important, since gum
disease is often symptomless.
Your dentist can also check your flossing and
toothbrushing technique.
Flossing Prevent Gingivitis & Periodontal Disease
Tools to Fight Gum Disease
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