Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and can be prevented with the right hygiene habits.
It’s no secret that brushing and flossing your teeth are important steps in achieving a bright and beautiful smile, but did you know that maintaining the condition of your gums is also essential when it comes to enjoying optimal oral health? By taking proper care of your gums, it is possible to keep a range of health issues at bay, including gum disease, bad breath, discomfort, and even tooth loss. So, how can you improve your gum health? Here are our top tips…
1. Brush your teeth thoroughly
One of the best ways to keep your gums healthy is actually to keep your teeth clean and free from plaque. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. When brushing, be sure to brush for around two minutes each time to ensure a thorough clean. Ideally, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t damage the soft tissues of your gums or the enamel of your teeth. Be sure to brush all the surfaces of your teeth, and don’t forget about your tongue — bacteria and plaque can accumulate in this area of the mouth throughout the day.
2. Remove plaque from between your teeth
Although thorough and regular brushing is essential when it comes to getting rid of plaque, flossing is equally important. In fact, flossing helps remove harmful bacteria, food particles, and other debris from between the teeth, where it is often not possible to do so with your toothbrush alone. Ideally, you should floss at least once a day so that plaque is removed before it can harden into tartar.
3. Consider using a mouthwash
Although rinsing with a mouthwash is no substitute for regular brushing and flossing, it can benefit your overall oral health. Rinse your mouth twice a day after you have brushed and flossed your teeth, and choose a product that has antibacterial properties as this will help to prevent plaque. If you need some help selecting a mouthwash that will work for your particular needs, chat to your dentist — they will be able to advise you based on the condition of your teeth and gums.
4. See your dentist regularly
Even with good oral hygiene habits, it is possible for plaque to harden into tartar in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. For this reason, it is very important that you see your dentist for a check-up and professional clean every six months. They will check for any potential issues, and remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth and along your gum line.
5. Consider your diet
Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining your general health, and the same goes for your oral health. Try to limit your consumption of sugary, acidic, and starchy foods, as these contribute to the development of plaque that can lead to gum disease and other issues. Try to eat plenty of nutrient-rich whole foods instead, and drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth clean and moist.
How can we help?
At Dental Pearls, we love to see our patients with healthy and happy smiles. We are available to address any questions or concerns that you have about your oral health, as well as your oral hygiene habits, lifestyle, and diet and how all of these factors could be affecting your teeth and gums.
Our team offers a comprehensive range of dentistry services. Whether you would simply like to come in for a routine check-up and clean, or you need restorative or cosmetic treatment, we can help. To find out more about the treatments that we provide, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here or give us a call at (07) 3210 2144.
Don’t forget to share this via Twitter, Google+, Pinterest and LinkedIn.
