This dental issue can fuel problems throughout…
It’s flossophy 101 — healthy gums for a more healthy you.
Most people focus on their enamel when brushing, but strong gums are important for general well-being.
Dr. Jason Auerbach, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in New Jersey, is sharing a secret weapon for stopping gum infections brought about by a buildup of bacteria. Courtesy of Dr. Jason Auerbach
“Gum health isn’t just about supporting your teeth. It’s about protecting your whole body,” Dr. Jason Auerbach, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in New Jersey and founder of MAX Surgical Specialty Management and Riverside Oral Surgery, told The Post.
“We now know that inflammation in the gums can fuel systemic problems like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.”
With September being National Gum Care Awareness Month, Auerbach is sharing a secret weapon for stopping gum infections brought about by a buildup of bacteria — water flossing.
Here’s a look at how a highly effective stream of water can help in the battle against gum disease.
What are gums?
Gums anchor enamel firmly in place and type a seal around them to forestall bacteria, food particles and infection from reaching the tooth roots and surrounding jawbone.
Strong gums are important for your general well-being. Inflammation in the gums can fuel systemic circumstances like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, Auerbach said. New Africa – stock.adobe.com
If bacteria accumulate on enamel, it’s identified as plaque, which can harden into tough-to-remove tartar.
Bacteria in the plaque release toxins that irritate the gums, inflicting inflammation called gingivitis.
Gingivitis can finally injury the bone, probably main to gum recession and tooth loss.
This inflammation can also worsen coronary heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems and other critical medical circumstances.
Several risk components increase the chance of gum disease, also called periodontal disease, including underlying health points, poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes and genetics.
“The reality is that nearly half of American adults (47.2%) suffer from some form of gum disease, according to the CDC,” said Auerbach, identified online as @bloodytoothguy.
“And the stakes are higher than most people realize.”
What is water flossing?
Flossing is important because it can take away plaque between enamel that toothbrushes can not attain.
Water flossing is more efficient than conventional flossing, Auerbach said. Creative Cat Studio – stock.adobe.com
You’ve most likely used conventional waxy floss — Auerbach said that water flossing is simpler and more efficient.
“Fill the reservoir with warm water, insert the tip into the flosser and lean over the sink,” he said.
“You should aim the tip at the gumline and make sure to floss in the front and the back.”
He recommends utilizing the water flosser twice a day to defend enamel and gums.
Research out of India last 12 months reported that water flossers are better at eradicating plaque from difficult-to-access areas than string floss.
What to look for when buying a water flosser
A water flosser isn’t as low-cost as $2 conventional floss, but some devices value as little as $20.
“You should buy a water flosser that has enough pressure and doesn’t spill everywhere,” Auerbach suggested.
He recommends the Waterpik model.
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