When you look at the mirror and smile, perhaps the first thing you look at may be your pearly white teeth. But have you tried looking at the gums protecting them? Many people are so concentrated on tooth care and forget their gums. You’ll be surprised to know that caring for your gums is almost the same for your teeth. Now, let’s discuss the useful ways to maintain your gum health.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums
Healthy gums play a big part in maintaining an individual’s healthy smile and general well-being, and keeping it healthy is not very difficult. Below are simple things you can follow to keep your gums in their best condition.
1. Quit smoking
According to a study performed by health professionals, smoking can increase a person’s risk of gum disease as it deteriorates the body’s immune system. For optimum gum health, it is advised to stop smoking and using other tobacco products to lower the risk of gum disease. Giving up smoking benefits gum health minimizes the possibility of lung issues and other conditions, and improves an individual’s overall health.
2. Brush your teeth properly
The best method to keep healthy gums is by brushing correctly and appropriately. Dental specialists suggest that people follow the guidelines indicated below:
- Brushing at least two times a day
- Moving the toothbrush in short strokes.
- Changing your toothbrush after 3 to 4 months, or sooner when the bristles begin to fray.
- Brushing at a 45-degree position to the gums.
- Cleaning the insides of the front teeth by brushing vertically.
- Pressing carefully.
- Making many brief strokes for each tooth.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
You may visit a dental clinic in Bethlehem PA, for more details on proper tooth brushing.
3. Floss and brush every day.
Floss and brush your teeth at least one to two times a day. According to experts, daily flossing helps eliminate the plaque and food particles stuck between your teeth and beyond the toothbrush’s reach. Doing these anytime does not matter. You may do it in the evening before going to sleep, first thing in the morning, or after eating lunch.
Doing this also saves you from gum disease. If you have been experiencing pain when chewing, that can be an early sign of periodontitis. Consider booking an appointment with a local periodontist or dental professional to have your teeth inspected.
4. Be consistent with routine dental checkups
Dental examinations include expert mouth cleaning. This is an excellent and efficient way to remove tartar from your teeth. Moreover, this helps remove plaque that individuals might have overlooked when tooth brushing. If you have kids, teach them about basic oral care and take them to a dentist who offers dental care for your children to ensure their healthy teeth.
Missing a tooth but want it back naturally? Consult with your dentist to find out your candidacy for dental implants. Dental implants may be the best choice you’re looking for.
5. Regularly use mouthwash
Therapeutic mouthwashes commonly available over the counter can help prevent and lower the odds of gingivitis, reduce plaque and the speed tartar develops. A mouthwash rinse can help remove debris and food particles from your teeth, but it should not be replaced or substituted for flossing and brushing. Instead, it needs to be done together with those. When buying mouthwash, search for the one with an ADA seal, as these are considered safe and efficient.