Fact: gum disease is super common. In fact, per the South African government, around 90% of us experience it at some point. The only other thing more common? A cold. But it’s also risky. That’s because gum disease is mostly not noticeable – and research has linked the problem to a range of serious health issues. Alzheimer’s, heart disease, infertility and even cancer. Here’s how to dodge the danger.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
According to Dirna Grobbelaar, oral hygiene advisor for Ivohealth and a member of the Oral Hygienists Association of South Africa (OHASA), most people don’t realise they have gum disease.
Visible signs include redness, swelling or bleeding gums. “Bleeding gums are never normal,” she says. “You may attribute bleeding gums to using the wrong brush or floss; in most cases, bleeding gums indicate gingivitis, the early form of gum disease.”
Fortunately, gingivitis can be treated and is reversible. If untreated, it can develop into a more serious form of gum disease – periodontitis – which can lead to bone and tooth loss. “Gum disease is best prevented and the earlier you intervene the better,” says Grobbelaar.
Can you be at risk of gum disease?
Bummer: yes you can. Genetics play a role, as does dry mouth and diabetes. But your habits can also contribute to a higher risk of yucky bacterial growth and unhealthy gums. Here, some signs you’re putting your oral health at risk – besides smoking or vaping.
You brush too hard
Maybe not a precursor for gum disease per se, but “aggressive brushing can cause gum recession,” says Grobbelaar. Your fix: use a soft-bristled brush or one that snaps back when you apply too much pressure. Or, think of it this way: your teeth are not your enemy.
You skip flossing
We’ve all been guilty of it – but making it a habit puts you at risk. Plaque and food debris love to hide between teeth where brushing cannot reach. If you don’t floss, it builds up and irritates the gums, potentially causing gingivitis.
You should be brushing twice a day for at least two minutes – 15 seconds per quadrant. Then, a daily floss is in order. If you can’t stand the strand kind, get a water flosser or interdental brush pick – see those below.
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You’re brushing like a see-saw
Good brush technique gets to the far back of the mouth and uses small, circular motions. “Incorrect brushing can damage the gums or leave plaque behind,” explains Grobbelaar.
You ignore bleeding gums
Per experts, bleeding gums are never normal – and is usually a sign of gum disease, Grobbelaar says. “If you see red when you brush or floss, follow a meticulous oral hygiene routine for a week,” says Grobbelaar (details below). “If it continues, consult a dental professional.”
More scary stuff: “If untreated, bleeding gums can lead to more serious problems including periodontitis, tooth loss, cardiovascular disease and pregnancy complications,” says Grobbelaar. “It is also more expensive to treat gum disease at an advanced stage.”
You use alcohol-based mouthwashes
Weird but true! “Alcohol dries out the mouth, which can lead to gum problems,” says Grobbelaar. “Opt for alcohol-free options.”
You skip the dentist
Set up an auto-alert every six months for the dentist – and actually stick to it. “Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to spot issues before you can,” says Grobbelaar. What’s more, even with your good routine, pesky plague and troublesome bacteria still need to be professionally cleaned. Excitingly, it no longer has to be painful. EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy® is a new treatment to clean the mouth – and it’s gentler, more comfortable and more effective. Find a practitioner for it here.
You’re not replacing your brush heads
Another thing to schedule, maybe: an old brush can’t clean well, which can lead to… you guessed – gum disease. And, the longer you have it, the more mould it can grow, which can make you sick. It also collects more bacteria over time, which could lead to a dental infection. Replace the brush every three months – or sooner, if it starts looking worn out or dirty.
You have hormones
Ah, another wonderful side-effect of being a woman. “Pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation can make gums more sensitive and prone to disease,” says Grobbelaar. While that’s certainly not something you can blame yourself for, take the time to pay special attention to your teeth during this time.
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How to treat gum disease at home
If you have the early signs of gum disease, follow these steps every day for a week. If things don’t resolve, see a dentist.
Brush twice a day
And brush for two minutes every time. Use a soft-bristled brush, and make it a small head that can get to tricky spaces more easily.
Not only us it pretty, it also has four brush modes, 40 000 sonic pulses per minute and does the job well.
This brush even monitors your brushing, featuring a pressure sensor, interactive display and gum protection.
Made for anyone with mobility issues, this brush has a dual-sided head that brushes inside and out and rotates 180°.
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Get flossing
These get in between your teeth to remove stuck bacteria.
This nifty water flosser is perfect for sensitive teeth and makes flossing way easier.
These picks are part brush, part toothpick and all plague-busting, making cleaner teeth.
These handy picks easily slide between each tooth to scrape off debris and is mint-infused.
Use the right mouthwash
These alcohol-free formulas won’t dry out your mouth and are friendly to sensitive gums.
This alcohol-free rinse helps restore gum health, especially before or after oral surgery.
Made with natural materials, this minty, cooling wash banishes bacteria and plaque build-up.
Also alcohol-free, this milder wash maintains healthy, strong teeth and gums.
Test your gum health
Ivohealth has a nifty quiz that gauges your gum sitch from just a few questions. Take the #HealthyGUMCheck to quickly assess your gum health, discover early indicators of disease and receive expert advice from a trusted oral health professional. Try it out here.
