Have you ever thought about the health of your gums? The gums do not ache often but there can be a lot going on with them. That could be cavities, redness, tenderness, and swelling. The gum disease begins when the plaque build-up below and along the gum line. It can cause infections and tooth decay. The plaque causes gingivitis which is the earliest stage of gum disease. But don’t worry, there are different ways in which you can keep your gums healthy. In this article, you will come across some oral hygiene tips that will ensure you maintain your oral health to ensure healthy gums.
What is gum disease?
Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. The gum disease appears when one does not brush or floss properly. This affects teeth and the tissues that surround them. This is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. There are certain symptoms that indicate the presence of this disease. They are
- Bleeding gums
- Red and swollen gums
- Bad breath or foul smell
- Loose teeth
If not taken care of, then this condition can level up to periodontitis. This develops periodontal pockets which can cause swollen gum tissue and tooth loss. Below-mentioned is some of the tips you should consider to prevent succumbing to this condition and keep your mouth healthy.
- Brush your teeth regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use the brush with soft bristles and make sure to replace it every 3-4 months or when the bristles begin to fray. Brush vertically in short strokes and brush your teeth gently so that it cleanses the insides of the front teeth.
- Go for a regular dental check-up
The dentist can detect the symptoms quickly and at a very early stage. They treat symptoms before they cause harm. Dentists use professional cleaning methods to remove plaque and tartar. If you are unable to remove the plaque from brushing or flossing, then regular dental cleanings are advisable.
- Give up smoking
Give up smoking to improve your gum health. Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) smoking makes it difficult for your gums to heal once they have been damaged.
- Wash your mouth often
Wash your mouth regularly. This the most effective tip for healthy teeth and gums. A mouthwash prevents gum disease, reduces the build-up speed of tartar and plaque, and removes food particles from the mouth. ADA says that there are two types of mouthwashes: therapeutic and cosmetic. You should look for the ADA seal which indicates safety and effectiveness.
- Use fluoride toothpaste
The right toothpaste can reduce gingivitis, whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and reduce plaque. Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and is stamped with an ADA seal. The toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors and colors to choose from. You can choose it as per your preference.
- Floss your mouth
Floss at least once a day. A toothbrush can’t reach every corner of the mouth. Flossing can help you with this. It removes the plaque that extends beyond your toothbrush’s reach, says American Dental Association (ADA). You can floss any time as per your convenience. Be it during the day after meals or before you go to bed. Also, gargle your mouth after every meal. It won’t allow the food particles to stick in and give birth to germs and bacteria inside.
- Foods and drinks to avoid and consume
The foods you consume directly or indirectly affect your oral health. The things you should eat are fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, seafood, sugar-free gums, and black & green teas. On the other hand, the things you should avoid are starchy foods, sticky candies, chocolates, carbonated soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
These are some of the effective tips for healthy gums and treatment. Implement these if you have any symptoms of gum damage. If it doesn’t work then consult a dentist for gum disease treatment. If you still need any assistance with your dental problems then you can contact experts in this field.