Many people will experience oral inflammation at some stage in their lives. It often comes in the form of gum disease, which has symptoms ranging from mild to severe. If you see a periodontist, they can tell you ways you can reduce inflammation and keep your gums healthy.
Avoid Smoking and Vaping
Every time you smoke, you reduce the amount of oxygen that enters your bloodstream. As your cheeks and gums depend on oxygen for healing when they encounter small abrasions, having less of it means you're more likely to experience inflammation. Although it's tempting to vape instead, there isn't enough evidence to suggest that vaping is a healthy alternative. As such, it's better to avoid smoking and vaping altogether.
Up Your Brushing Game
Brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial for preventing gum disease. If you're keen to prevent inflammation, you need to start thinking harder about how you brush. Start by examining the types of bristles you're using. If they're medium or hard, they may damage your gums and trigger an inflammatory cascade. Additionally, make sure you brush at a 45-degree angle to remove as much bacteria as possible and keep your gums healthy.
Increase Your Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in reducing inflammation throughout your body. They can slow down the inflammatory processes that cause gum disease, and may even reduce the number of bacteria present in your mouth. One of the more obvious sources of omega-3 fatty acids is salmon. However, if you don't eat fish you can try chia seeds, kidney beans or edamame beans. If incorporating omega-3s into your food isn't proving easy, try taking a supplement instead.
Recognise Gum Disease Signs
Despite your best efforts, you may find that gum disease develops anyway. Some of the commonest signs include bleeding when you brush your teeth, persistent bad breath and gums that feel tender. Seeing a dentist or periodontist is crucial when you recognise the signs of gum disease. The sooner you speak to a professional, the easier it is for them to use a treatment that slows gum disease's progression and prevents you from needing more intensive therapy.
Preventing oral inflammation isn't just necessary for protecting your dental health. When your body has fewer inflammatory battles to fight, your immune system is ready to tackle other challenges that come its way. If you're struggling to keep oral inflammation under control, speak to a professional for further advice.
