Contents:
- Medical Video: How to Relieve Swollen Gums Caused by Infections
- The oral cavity is the largest nest of bacteria in the body
- Plaque buildup triggers gum disease and tooth decay
- Gargling can remove plaque that triggers gum disease
Medical Video: How to Relieve Swollen Gums Caused by Infections
Did you know, 9 out of 10 adults have had gum disease. Even the incidence of gum disease worldwide is higher compared to heart attack. Well, gargling routinely uses an alias mouthwashmouthwash can help fight and eliminate the remnants of bacteria that nest in the mouth, especially teeth and gums.
The oral cavity is the largest nest of bacteria in the body
The human body has 20 times the number of microbes than the number of cells, and the oral cavity is one of the most bacteria places in the body. Even so, bacteria in the mouth are easier to control.
This was stated by drg. Sri Angky Soekanto, Ph.D., PBO from the University of Indonesia Faculty of Dentistry whom Hello Sehat team met on Friday (9/11) in South Jakarta.
"The mouth is one of the most numerous places for bacteria. But, precisely in that place, healing occurs faster. Let us consider, if the wound has a wound in the mouth, it will heal faster than in other places, "said drg. Sri Angky.
The bacteria that have been detected in the oral cavity are around 700 types. These bacteria together with food scraps, mucus, and other particles will form plaque.
Plaque buildup triggers gum disease and tooth decay
Plaques are thin layers of protein and bacteria (called biofilms) that accumulate on the surface of the teeth.
If allowed to accumulate, plaques filled with bacteria will produce acid. This acid plays a role in tooth decay and produces toxins from food scraps. In the end, this can cause gingivitis. Gingivitis is an gum infection, which is also one of the earliest signs of periodontal disease or gum disease.
In the later stages, gum disease can trigger various problems such as pain, bleeding gums, painful chewing problems, cavities, and tooth loss. In fact, gum disease that is already severe can trigger various complications in all organs of the body.
"In severe cases, germs can enter the blood vessels carrying 700 bacteria from the mouth. These bacteria can then enter everywhere, because our bodies are filled with blood vessels. So, it is certain that these germs will travel to the blood vessels. Thank God that the bacteria is not in a dangerous place. If you go to a dangerous place, it will certainly be fatal, "said drg. Sri Angky.
Gargling can remove plaque that triggers gum disease
The good news, mouthwash can help remove plaque, thereby reducing the gathering of bacteria in the teeth. If it is combined with the habit of brushing teeth and flossing routinely, the three are effective for preventing various dental and mouth problems later on.
"Actually, we (Indonesia) have missed it once. In developed countries, it has been recommended for a long time to brush teeth, flossing, and gargling is done twice a day, "said drg. Sri Angky who also serves as Chair of the Indonesian Dentist College (KDGI).
Drg. Sri Angky added that the three good habits are the only way to maintain oral health. All three must be done routinely and continuously. Because the toothbrush is not able to reach the entire oral cavity and cleanse the remaining food between the teeth. No wonder if caries or tooth holes appear most often between teeth.
Now, this is why you also need to flossing teeth and gargling. Furthermore, drg. Sri Angky explained, "Frankly speaking, flossing teeth are a bit troublesome. Now there is a brush between teeth (interdental brush) but unfortunately it's still expensive. So if I can recommend it, it's easiest to brush your teeth and gargle. "
Mouthwash specifically to prevent gingivitis or gum disease usually contains special substances that are formulated to kill plaque-causing bacteria in the teeth. However, for cases of plaque that has hardened and formed a tartar, then you need to go to the dentist. Hardened plaques cannot be removed simply by brushing your teeth and gargling. Only a professional cleansing by a dentist can lift tartar.
"I will not say every 6 months, once a year. My mouth with your mouth is different. It depends on the dentist when telling you to check again after the first consultation. There could be someone who has to come back again after two or three months, right, "concluded drg. Sri Angky.
