6 Ways to Maintain Gum Health
6 Ways to Maintain
Gum Health
6 Ways to Maintain Gum Health
It’s not only about how straight your teeth are or how radiant your smile is when it comes to the health of your mouth. Your gums are an important consideration! Even if you don’t have any cavities and have the best teeth, gum disease can still affect you. Most people are unaware that anything is amiss with their gums because it is typically painless.
What’s Gum Disease?
Plaque accumulation under and along the gum line is the first sign of gum disease. Bacteria-filled sticky film-like material is known as plaque. Gum disease and tooth decay may result from infections that harm the bone and gums. The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, can also be brought on by plaque. Your gums become: when you have gingivitis.
- Inflamed
- Tender
- Red
- Swollen
- Likely to bleed
Fortunately, this damage is repairable because the bone and tissue keeping the teeth in place are not damaged.
Additionally, periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, might develop. The bones that hold your teeth in place are affected by periodontitis. It can harm the tissues, bones, and gums that support your teeth if left untreated.
Advanced periodontitis is the last stage of periodontal disease. Your teeth’s supporting fibres and bone are damaged at this point. Your bite may be affected, and dental extractions may be necessary.
The British Dental Association (BDA) lists the following indications that you may have gum disease:
- Continuously unpleasant taste or bad breath
- Loose or separate permanent teeth
- Gums that bleed easily
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness of the gums
- Gums that are no longer attached to your teeth
Gum disease can be avoided. Here are some tips to help you maintain healthy gums.
Floss
At least once each day, floss. According to the BDA, this aids in removing plaque and food particles that are difficult for your toothbrush to reach. It makes no difference when you floss. Just do it, do it at night, in the morning, or after lunch.
Schedule routine dental check-ups
If you visit your dentist regularly, they can spot early signs of gum disease. Symptoms can be treated before they worsen. Only professional dental cleaning can get rid of tartar. Additionally, it can remove any plaque that was missed during brushing or flossing. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings can all help treat gingivitis.
Stop Smoking
Stop Smoking. Smoking has a direct correlation to the development of gum disease, which is still another incentive for smokers to give up. According to the NHS, smoking depletes your immune system, which makes it more difficult for you to fight off a gum infection. Additionally, smoking makes it more difficult for your damaged gums to recover.
Twice daily brushing
After every meal, brush your teeth. This aids in removing plaque and food particles stuck between your teeth and gums. Also, brush your tongue because it may contain bacteria. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and fit comfortably in your mouth.
Think about using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush. More so than manual brushing, these can aid in the reduction of gingivitis and plaque. Every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles begin to tear, swap toothbrushes or toothbrush heads.
Try using an electric toothbrush for healthy gums.
Use fluoride toothpaste for healthy gums
There are several toothpaste brands on the market that make claims to treat gingivitis, improve breath quality, and whiten teeth. Which one is best for maintaining healthy gums? Make sure you use fluoride-containing toothpaste. The flavour and colour are then entirely up to you!
Utilize a restorative mouthwash for healthy gums
According to the BDA, therapeutic mouthwashes, which are typically sold over the counter, can help reduce plaque, prevent or treat gingivitis, slow the rate at which tartar forms, or a combination of these advantages. Plus: Although it can’t replace brushing or flossing, rinsing your mouth out can help remove food particles and other detritus. For proof that something is both functional and secure, look for the ADA seal.
Whether you brush, floss, or rinse first is irrelevant. Use the proper tools and simply perform a good job.