Our smiles are the first thing that people notice during the meeting. A bright smile depends on the overall health of your teeth and gums. When we neglect proper dental care, plaque can build. Plaque is a sticky substance like a film that contains bacteria. It can lead to infections that harm the gums and bones. It causes gum disease and tooth decay. Gums play a vital role in supporting your teeth and protecting the sensitive roots underneath. That’s why you should keep them healthy by adopting good habits. Here are some tips to keep your gums healthy and strong.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Gum health starts with good oral hygiene habits. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It’s important to pay special attention to the gumline, where plaque can build up. Also, you can gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria.
Flossing is equally important as it helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. You should floss once a day between teeth where the brush can’t reach. This is to prevent gum disease and cavities.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for keeping your gums healthy. You should often visit a reputable dentist so that they can find early signs of gum disease or other problems before they get worse. If needed, they can prescribe proper cleaning of the teeth because sometimes brushing and floss can’t remove the plaque from certain areas. In the professional cleaning process, the dentist removes built-up plaque and tartar.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet with lots of nutrients is great for your health, including your gums. You should eat plenty of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods give you the nutrients you need for healthy gums and overall health. You don’t have to stop eating your favorite treats, but it’s wise to limit sugary or acidic snacks and drinks. They can cause oral bacteria to build up over time, which facilitates plaque buildup and cavities.
Avoid Tobacco Products
When you use tobacco products, like smoking, it greatly raises the chances of gum disease. Tobacco makes it harder for gums to get enough blood, which slows down their healing from infections. If you’re a smoker, then you should stop smoking for both your mouth and your overall health.
Take Care of Advanced Gum Problems
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or receding gums, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. When you treat these issues early, you can stop gum disease from getting worse. However, if your gums are receding or you lost gum, then you can opt for a surgical procedure, often called gum graft. In this procedure, a tissue is taken from another part of your mouth or a donor and used to rebuild lost gum tissue. This can be necessary to cover exposed tooth roots, improve aesthetics, or create a stronger foundation for teeth.
