6 Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy
Gum disease develops when plaque accumulates beneath and along the gum line. Plaque is a bacteria-filled sticky film-like substance. It can cause infections that damage the gums and bones, resulting in gum disease and tooth decay. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, can also be caused by plaque.
Your gums get inflamed as a result of gingivitis.
inflamed, sensitive, red, swollen, and bleeding
Gum disease is avoidable.
Here are a few tips to maintain your gums healthy.
1. Floss
Floss your teeth at least once a day. According to the ADA, this helps eliminate plaque and food that your toothbrush cannot reach. It makes no difference when you floss. Do it at night, in the morning, or after lunch… just do it!
2. Schedule frequent dental cleanings.
If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, he or she can discover early signs of gum disease. This allows symptoms to be treated before they worsen. Only a skilled cleaning can eradicate tartar. It can also remove any plaque that you missed while brushing or flossing. Brushing, flossing, and frequent dental cleanings can help reverse gingivitis.
3. Give up smoking
Another incentive for smokers to quit: smoking is highly linked to the development of gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking lowers your immune system, making it more difficult to fight off a gum infection (CDC). Furthermore, smoking makes it more difficult for damaged gums to heal.
4. Brush your teeth twice a day
After each meal, brush your teeth. This aids in the removal of food and plaque that has become trapped between your teeth and gums. Scrub your tongue as well, as it might harbour bacteria. According to the Mayo Clinic, your toothbrush should have soft bristles and fit comfortably in your mouth. Consider purchasing a battery-operated or electric toothbrush. These are more effective than manual brushing at reducing gingivitis and plaque. Replace toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every three to four months.
5. Make use of fluoride toothpaste.
When it comes to toothpaste, there are numerous kinds on the market that claim to alleviate gingivitis, freshen breath, and whiten teeth. How can you know which is ideal for maintaining healthy gums? Make sure to use fluoride-containing toothpaste with the ADA mark of approval. The flavour and colour are then entirely up to you!
6. Make use of a therapeutic mouthwash.
Therapeutic mouthwashes, which are typically available over the counter, can help decrease plaque, prevent or minimise gingivitis, slow the formation of tartar, or a combination of these advantages, according to the ADA. Furthermore, a rinse aids in the removal of food particles and debris from your mouth, while it is not a substitute for flossing or brushing. Look for the ADA seal, which indicates that product has been determined to be effective and safe.
It makes no difference whether you brush, floss, or rinse first. Simply perform a decent job and utilise the proper products.