The health of your mouth is about so much more than how straight or white your teeth are. Even if you have a perfectly shiny set of pearly whites, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically protected from gum disease. Although this bacterial infection starts out with mild symptoms like red gums and bleeding when flossing, it can quickly progress to the point where your teeth loosen or even fall out entirely! Not only that, but gum disease has been linked to several other medical conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. To avoid these problems and maintain healthy gums, here are six easy tips to follow.
1. Get Your Teeth Cleaned Regularly
Gum disease usually doesn’t display symptoms until it has reached the more advanced stages. During routine checkups, your dentist can spot and treat this condition before it becomes serious. A professional cleaning can also remove built-up plaque, which contributes to gum disease.
2. Quit Smoking
People who smoke are more than twice as likely to develop gum disease as nonsmokers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tobacco use also hinders your body’s ability to heal and fight off infections, making it harder to heal from gum disease.
3. Brush Twice Daily
Brushing every morning and night scrubs plaque and food debris from your teeth that could attract bacteria. Some research has suggested that electric toothbrushes are more effective at preventing gum disease.
4. Use a Fluoridated Toothpaste
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens your tooth enamel, making it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate on them. When shopping for toothpaste, make sure to select one that contains fluoride.
5. Floss Every Day
Flossing is the only way to remove leftover food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can’t access. It doesn’t matter whether you floss in the morning, at night, or after meals; all that matters is that you do it at least once daily.
6. Rinse with a Therapeutic Mouthwash
Available at most drugstores, therapeutic mouthwashes can clear away bits of food and plaque. Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing and flossing can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease. It’s even better if your mouthwash is fluoridated.
Preventing gum disease can help you maintain not just healthy gums, but a healthy body overall. Follow these tips to keep your mouth clean and infection-free!
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose is a dentist in Melbourne, FL who received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She attends regular continuing education seminars through her memberships in the International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She gladly provides preventive dental care so her patients of all ages can avoid the complications of gum disease. To learn more about how to keep your gums healthy, visit her website or call her practice at (321) 259-4666.