Taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, a healthy set of gums is paramount. After all, healthy gums are the foundation for a healthy smile.
Unfortunately, gum disease is a common problem, and it can lead to a host of serious issues. The good news is, there are simple steps you can take to protect your gums and prevent gum disease. With that in mind, here are some tips to help maintain gum health and keep gum disease at bay:
How to Improve Your Gum Health
Tip #1: Don’t Forget to Include Flossing in Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Flossing is an important part of maintaining your gum health, and it’s unfortunately often forgotten when it comes to oral hygiene. Flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause gum disease and decay, and it’s an easy and quick way to keep your gums healthy.
When flossing, it’s essential to be gentle and take your time. Start by taking a piece of floss and winding it around your middle finger on both hands. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, going beneath the gum line. Gently move the floss up and down each side of each tooth, and be careful not to use a sawing motion when flossing.
When you get to the back of your last tooth, make sure to curve the floss around the tooth and go beneath the gum line one more time. By following these steps, you can help improve your gum health and keep your mouth healthy and happy.
Tip #2: Schedule Regular Cleanings and Show Up
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good gum health. These cleanings not only remove plaque and tartar buildup, but also allow your dentist to spot any potential problems early on.
During a professional cleaning, your dentist will use special tools to scrape off plaque, which can be difficult to remove with just brushing and flossing alone. They will also use a special instrument to measure the depth of your gum pockets, which can help them detect gum disease in its early stages.
It’s important to ensure you show up for your regular cleanings. Not only will this help your dentist spot any potential problems early on, but it will also help reduce the risk of gum disease and other dental problems.
If you’re having difficulty remembering to make and keep your appointments, you can set reminders on your phone or calendar, or even ask a friend or family member to help you remember.
Tip #3: Brush Twice a Day Using the Right Toothbrush, Followed by a Mouthwash
Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining good gum health, and brushing your teeth twice a day is an important part of that. But it’s not just about how often you brush, it’s about how you brush.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, the type of toothbrush you use is just as important as how often you brush. It’s important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles, as hard bristles can damage your gums and teeth. Once you’ve finished brushing, rinse your mouth with mouthwash.
Tip #4: Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major contributor to poor gum health, and quitting is one of the best ways to improve your gum health. Smoking has been shown to reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches the gum tissue, leading to inflammation and infection. Smoking also increases the amount of plaque and bacteria in the mouth, leading to an increased risk of gum disease.
If you’re a smoker and you’re looking to improve your gum health, the first step is to quit smoking. Quitting smoking can be difficult, but there are a variety of resources available to help you. Your doctor or dentist can provide advice and support to help you quit. Talk to your doctor or dentist about the best option for you, such as medication or counselling.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Forget to Prioritize Your Gum Health When Caring for Your Teeth
Gum health is often overlooked when it comes to oral hygiene, but it’s essential for preventing gum disease, which can damage the gums, teeth, and even the jawbone.
By taking the time to prioritise your gum health, you can help to prevent the development of gum disease and other oral health issues. Regular brushing and flossing, visiting the dentist regularly, and eating a healthy diet can help keep your gums healthy and your smile looking its best.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Lethbridge, London Road Dental has got you covered! I understand how important it is to have a healthy, beautiful smile. That’s why I offer a wide range of dental services to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
From preventative care and cleanings to restorative and cosmetic dentistry, I’m here to help you achieve the best possible dental health.