Gum disease can be more problematic than you realize. Unhealthy gums have been linked to heart disease, some kinds of cancer, and even problems in pregnancy. To keep your mouth and body healthy read up on these causes and cures for gum disease.

Poor brushing habits

One of the leading causes of gum disease is poor brushing habits. If you do not properly clean your teeth at least twice a day you can quickly end up with some form of gum disease. Gingivitis can begin in a very short period of time if gums and teeth are not sufficiently cleaned. Plaque can build up and keep harmful bacteria nestled in your gums. To avoid any gum problems, brush your teeth thoroughly at a 45-degree angle for no less than two minutes per brushing session. Use fluoride toothpaste to help add to mouth health and pick out a soft-bristled tooth brush. For best results replace your tooth brush every three to four months, or as soon as see wear on the bristles. If you continue to use a tooth brush with frayed bristles it will not do the job well enough and leave you susceptible to gum disease. Encourage children to brush for the entire two minutes by playing them two minutes of a song. The earlier they start good brushing habits, the better. Healthy oral hygiene that is learned early is more likely to continue into adulthood.

Flossing

Another important part of oral health is flossing. Food particles and plaque can become trapped between teeth very easily and if proper flossing is not implemented it will remain untouched and allowed to become problematic. Cleaning between your teeth just once a day with floss can help prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy. Flossing helps to remove gum disease causing plaque that if left to fester can turn into tartar. Tartar is a hardened version of plaque that can only be removed by your dentist. You can choose to floss either before or after brushing and can do it anytime during the day. If you have teeth that are hard to fit floss between consider using a water flosser for the job, you will get the same benefits as flossing just in a different form.

Smoking

Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, it can also be very detrimental to your oral health. Tobacco products weaken your immune system which can quickly lead to gum disease in teeth that are not properly taken care of. Smoking increases your chance for tooth decay and loss and can quicken the intensity of gum disease.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body produces more blood to accommodate your growing baby. You may notice puffier gums that bleed occasionally while pregnant. The increased level of the hormone progesterone also makes it easier for gingivitis causing bacteria to grow. To avoid gum disease that will affect you and your baby be sure to take your oral health very seriously during pregnancy. Keep good brushing habits, flossing, and a germ-killing mouth wash in your daily routine. See your dentist right away if you have concerns, as gum disease during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth.