How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

The health of your gums is vital for your oral and overall health. Gum disease increases inflammation throughout the body which can lead to lung, heart, and liver complications. Gum disease can also affect your nutritional health as it would be necessary to avoid chewing hard or crispy foods like fruits and vegetables.

Gum disease may be less common now, but it is altogether avoidable. You may have the brightest smile and cleanest teeth, but if you do not take care of your gums you may find your smile gone.

Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Choosing and practicing healthy habits is not easy. It is best to begin with the repetition of healthy habits to maintain them over time. Here are tips to help, because the benefits will last you a lifetime.

Regular Dental Checkups

When was the last time you were at the dentist for a checkup? If the answer is more than six months to a year, you need to schedule a dental checkup soon. They typically include a professional cleaning, which is the only way to remove tartar. The cleaning will get rid of any plaque remaining after brushing and flossing.

The dentist will also check to identify any issues. If the dentist notices signs of gum disease, they will help you plan a routine to help you prevent severe problems in the future.

Stop Smoking

Smoking weakens your immunity and makes your gums more susceptible to gum disease. You need to stop smoking or using other tobacco products to reduce the risk of damaging your gums. Damage to your gums can eventually lead to loss of teeth.

Brush Twice a Day

This tip may seem obvious, but many people overlook it. If possible, you should brush after every meal. It will help remove food particles that remain between your teeth and gums. These food particles attract bacteria that feed on them and form plaque and tartar. They also lead to inflammation of the gums which results in gum disease.

Floss

You can reach three surfaces of your teeth when brushing. However, the other two surfaces are where food particles and plaque hide. Flossing helps you get to these surfaces and remove the food particles and plaque.

Make sure you floss at least once a day, and the best time is at night. Take your time and floss carefully. Do not damage your gums.

Use a Mouthwash

There are two types of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Therapeutic mouthwash prevents gum disease, reduces the speed of tartar buildup, and removes food particles from your mouth. It also reduces the amount of plaque on your teeth.

Use a Fluoride Toothpaste

Make sure that your check if your toothpaste has fluoride. Many brands of toothpaste claim to reduce gingivitis. However, select those that contain fluoride. Fluoride disrupts acid production and helps in remineralization, preventing acid attacks that lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

For more information on how to keep your gums healthy, visit Reaves Dental at our office in New Hartford, NY. You can call (315) 736-0139 today to schedule an appointment.