What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, commonly referred to as periodontitis, is a severe infection in the gums that damages the soft tissue surrounding the teeth.
If left untreated, the damage can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, leading to loosening or loss of teeth. This early stage is known as gingivitis.
What Causes Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a quite common condition resulting from poor oral hygiene. Bacteria accumulate in tissue through plaque, a thin, sticky film covering the teeth.
This plaque is typically removed by brushing and rinsing the mouth. However, if not done correctly, or if teeth are not cleaned regularly, the buildup of bacteria can increase until it forms a hard layer of tartar that protects bacteria, allowing them to damage the tooth’s delicate surface.
What Are the Symptoms of Periodontitis?
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Swelling or inflammation of the gums.
- Gums changing to a bright red, dark, or purple color.
- Bleeding gums.
- Dental sensitivity.
- Pink bristles on the toothbrush after brushing.
- Spitting blood.
- Bad breath.
- Pus between the teeth.
- Loose teeth or teeth falling out.
- Pain when chewing.
- Gaps forming between the teeth, creating triangular black spaces.
- Receding gums.
Can You Use a Water Flosser with Periodontitis?
Absolutely yes, and many dentists actually recommend it.
The water jet not only cleans the surface of the teeth, removing more plaque than a toothbrush, but also helps stimulate the gums and penetrates into them, effectively eliminating bacteria and debris.
It also helps clean between teeth and combat gum bleeding, reducing it.
How to Use a Water Flosser with Periodontitis
It’s critical to use the water flosser at least once a day, ideally at night, since it may be several hours until you eat again after brushing.
To use it correctly for oral cleaning and treating periodontitis, follow these steps:
- Fill the tank with warm water or hot water if you have significant sensitivity.
- Set the dial to power level 1 or soft mode if using a portable flosser.
- Attach the nozzle to the handle.
- Turn on the flosser and direct the stream along the gum line above the tooth to start cleaning.
- Clean each tooth for about two seconds.
- Once you have cleaned all the teeth, use mouthwash to rinse your mouth.
- After spitting out, avoid drinking water for the next 30 minutes so the mouthwash can work effectively.