When it comes to oral health, it’s easy to overlook our gums and even easier to overlook early signs of gum disease.
Plaque, a sticky film filled with bacteria, builds up at the gumline. It can cause infections like gingivitis and periodontitis that damage the gum and bone.
If you want to prevent gum disease and enjoy a healthy mouth, practice the 6 tips below.
1. Brush Twice a Day
Just like your teeth, your gums need consistent brushing every day. Ideally, you should brush after every meal, but morning and night are perfectly acceptable.
Brushing removes food and plaque between your teeth and gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue where bacteria can build up.
2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
With the dizzying array of different kinds of toothpaste on the shelf, how do you know which one is best?
Choose one with fluoride that has the ADA seal of acceptance. It’s been approved by dentists to clean your teeth and gums properly.
3. Therapeutic Mouthwash
A good mouthwash helps remove extra food particles, prevent gingivitis, and reduce plaque. Look for one with the ADA seal of acceptance, and pick your favorite flavor.
It doesn’t matter if you use mouthwash before or after brushing and flossing. What’s important is that you use quality products consistently.
4. Floss Daily to Prevent Gum Disease
Flossing is a great way to fight gum disease and should be done daily. Many people do it at night, but you can do it anytime.
Floss goes where the toothbrush can’t and removes food and plaque wedged between the teeth and gums.
5. Regular Dental Cleanings
At a dental cleaning, your dentist can see early signs of gum disease that you may miss. He can also remove any plaque and tartar that has built up.
Regular cleanings and consistent brushing and flossing can help heal gingivitis and prevent it from progressing.
6. Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major factor in the onset of gum disease and weakens the immune system, making it harder for you to fight off infection. It also slows down healing after your gums have been damaged.
If you smoke, you might want to quit for many reasons, one of which is to prevent gum disease.
Conclusion
Gum disease can set in before you know it and cause irreversible damage to your gums, teeth, and bones.
Habits such as daily brushing and flossing and getting regular dental cleanings are effective ways to prevent gum disease and preserve your health. By consistently practicing these 6 tips, you are giving your mouth the care it needs.
Click here to learn more about gum health and what Dr. David Kuban can do for you!
Content found on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please speak with a professional if you have concerns about your oral health.
