Gum disease often occurs when there is a buildup of dental plaque on your teeth. This dental disease is usually associated with the presence of natural teeth in the mouth, even though its effects are first felt on the gums. You can still struggle with gum disease even if you have no natural teeth remaining. Tooth loss is one of the most common consequences of gum disease. Your dentist might suggest tooth extraction as a last resort when other interventions to save your teeth fail. However, tooth extraction does not entirely fix the problem of gum disease. Treatment can include a prescription of antibiotics and deep cleaning.
How to Reduce the Likelihood of Gum Disease When You Have No Teeth
You can keep gum disease at bay by following a few guidelines. These are described below:
Brush Your Gums
You should not stop brushing with toothpaste and a toothbrush when you no longer have any teeth. You should continue brushing to keep your gums clean. However, you must use an extra-soft toothbrush to clean your gums. Brushing removes any food debris from the gums, which then eliminates the buildup of bacteria on the gums. Clean gums can keep gum disease at bay while also stimulating the gums to keep the tissues healthy.
Brush Your Tongue
After brushing your gums, you should also brush your tongue using a special tongue cleaner or the same soft brush you use to brush your gums. Brushing and massaging your tongue with fluoride toothpaste can remove bacteria and food particles hiding in the crevices along the tongue to keep gum disease at bay.
Use Mouth Wash
Mouthwash is suitable for rinsing your mouth, usually after brushing. Mouth rinses are usually considered the last line of defense against dangerous bacteria in the mouth. Some of these bacteria tend to linger even after you brush and rinse your mouth with water.
Call Us if You Suspect You Might Have Gum Disease
Despite your best efforts to keep your gums and tongue clean, you might still experience gum disease. At this point, you need the services of a dental professional. Call us today to schedule an appointment and have our dentists ascertain the absence of gum disease.
