A healthy mouth includes more than a set of nice, white teeth. As a matter of fact, one of the most significant factors contributing to your oral health is your gums! That’s why you must properly care for and maintain your gums, as any dental hygienist will tell you. Failure to do so could result in bacteria and plaque buildup, leading to gum disease.
Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to prevent this. And in this article, we’ll cover 5 easy tips to help you maintain healthy gums.
1. Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are essential. Why? Because dentists have the tools to clear plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone frequently misses. There are many nooks and crannies within the crevices of your teeth and gums. For this reason, it’s challenging to get within those gaps and apertures.
That’s where a dental cleaning can be helpful. Dental cleanings can do more than maintain healthy gums; they also improve oral health, illuminate your smile, and can stave off cavities and tooth loss. As a result, a dental cleaning once every 6 months is the typical recommendation.
2. Eliminate Bad Habits
Whether you smoke, drink sodas, or eat too many sweets, bad oral habits can impact your gums and teeth. If you want to maintain healthy gums, simply improving your lifestyle (dispensing with bad habits) is half the battle. Here are some other bad habits you should quit for healthier gums:
- Consuming sports/energy drinks
- Eating too many starchy foods
- Drinking too much coffee
- Regular alcohol intake
- Nail biting
- Mouth breathing
3. Brush and Floss
Brushing and flossing are the apexes of oral health. You should brush every day, twice a day; once in the morning and once more in the evening before bed. Also, you should floss every day as well. The ideal time is before you retire to bed at night.
This practice will allow you to floss out all the food remnants accumulated in your teeth during the day.
Additional benefits of a daily brushing and flossing habit include:
- Healthy gums
- Reduction in bacteria
- Whiter and healthier teeth
- Lowered chance of gum disease
4. Pick the Proper Toothpaste
Store shelves are occupied with numerous toothpaste brands, but what brand is best for your gums? One thing you don’t want to do is choose toothpaste based on flavour alone. Instead, select a toothpaste with the ADA and fluoride acceptance seal. If the toothpaste meets those prerequisites, choose whatever flavour you want!
5. Start Using Mouthwash
Mouthwash is another standard oral health practice. However, it’s important to select the right mouthwash for the job. Look for therapeutic mouth rinses; these products retain active ingredients to prevent or diminish plaque, tooth decay, gingivitis, and more.
However, it’s crucial to note that mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing; it is to be used as an additive oral health measure rather than a substitution.
Speak to a Dental Hygienist About Your Gum Health Today
Your gum health represents your oral health, which connects to your overall health. So when it comes to dental hygiene, nothing stands alone. For this reason, it’s essential that your gums are healthy and are being adequately maintained. And the best way to ensure that’s the case is by booking an appointment with your dentist.
At Airdrie 8th Street Dental, we offer comprehensive dental care for the whole family. And with a caring and experienced team, you’re in good hands regardless of your dental needs. So book a dental appointment today to ensure your oral health.
