Keeping your teeth strong and healthy is important, but you can’t forget about your gums! The truth is that having a healthy smile also includes the soft tissues in your mouth. When gums aren’t being cared for properly, this increases your chances of developing gingivitis. When left untreated, this can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Ultimately, this can mean loose teeth, tooth loss, jawbone shrinkage, and other serious problems. Continue reading to learn some ways to keep your gums in good shape!
Brush Twice a Day
You should try to brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day to remove plaque and food that’s been left behind in your mouth. Remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it approximately every three months. Using an electric toothbrush can help to reduce gingivitis and plaque even more than regular brushing.
Floss Daily
Your toothbrush can’t reach all of the plaque in your mouth. That’s why it’s so important to floss to maintain healthy gums. Doing so removes food debris and plaque from between the teeth and below the gum line. It doesn’t matter what time of day you floss. Just do it at some point to keep your smile fresh.
Use Fluoridated Toothpaste
When you are picking out toothpaste at your local drug store, choose one that contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance. When a product has this seal, this means that it has been deemed both effective and safe.
Use Mouthwash
You can find therapeutic mouthwashes over the counter. They are good options because they help to reduce plaque, gingivitis, and reduce the speed that tartar accumulates. They also help to rinse away food debris and particles that have been left in your mouth. However, it isn’t a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.
See Your Dentist
Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease when you see them regularly. A professional cleaning is also the only safe way to remove tartar. They will also get rid of any plaque that you’ve accidentally left behind. If you’ve been suffering from gum disease, you can get periodontal therapy from your dentist as a treatment.
Don’t Smoke
If you needed another reason to quit smoking, you should know that it is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder to fight off infections including gum disease. It also makes it more difficult for your gums to heal once they have been damaged.
Remember that healthy gums are the foundation for strong teeth. By taking the steps listed above, you can keep your gums in good health!
About the Author
Dr. George A. Hoop earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Emory University School of Dentistry and has pursued additional training through several of the world’s leading institutions, including the Pikos Institute, the Misch International Implant Institute, the Dawson Academy, and the Pankey Institute. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Fort Myers, visit his website or call (239) 939-7299.