6 Ways to Keep Your Gums Happy and Healthy

When it comes to maintaining good oral health, most people tend to put too much emphasis on their teeth. Although their health is crucial, don’t forget to care for your gums too! Your smile could be flawless, bright, and cavity-free, but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to periodontal disease. Luckily, you can prevent infection and keep your gums healthy by following these tips.

Floss Daily

Do you floss every day? If not, you absolutely should be. It helps eliminate plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas that brushing alone cannot get.  Incorporating floss into your daily routine will keep all the nooks and crannies in your mouth clean and free of bacteria. If your gums bleed while flossing, don’t worry – it’ll eventually go away after consistently doing it for a few days.  

Brush Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential to keep the bacteria in your mouth at bay. It’s highly beneficial for your tooth and gum health. Ideally, you should also brush after every meal and snack to remove any plaque and food trapped between your teeth and gums. If possible, consider investing in an electric toothbrush! It’s proven to be more effective at preventing periodontal disease.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Shopping for toothpaste can be an overwhelming experience, thanks to shelves lined with brands that promise different things. Some claim to freshen breath and whiten teeth, while others reduce gingivitis and prevent cavities. How do you settle on the best one for your gums? No matter what variety you opt for, always ensure it contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance! Fluoride helps combat gingivitis and promotes overall gum health.

Rinse with Therapeutic Mouthwash

While it’s not an adequate substitute for brushing and flossing, rinsing with therapeutic mouthwash can benefit your gums. It helps reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, and reduce the speed that tartar develops. It can be a great addition to your oral health regimen!

Avoid Tobacco

Smoking is strongly associated with the onset of periodontal disease. Since it weakens your immune system, it makes it more difficult for your body to fight off a gum infection. Plus, it makes it harder for your gums to heal once they get damaged. If you’re looking for a reason to stop smoking, think of its detrimental effects on your gums to motivate you!

Routine Dental Cleanings

Routine visits with your dentist are for more than finding cavities – it allows your dentist to catch early signs of gum disease as well. Fortunately, the disease can be treated before it becomes a more severe complication. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar and eliminate any excess plaque.

In most cases, gum disease is reversible with professional treatment. However, following the tips highlighted above is the best way to keep your gums happy, healthy, and problem-free!

About the Practice

Our team at The Castleberry Center delivers only the highest quality of care in a clean, comfortable, and relaxing environment. We use the latest technology and treatments to offer patients an extraordinary experience beyond what’s anywhere else. Do you think you have gum disease? Our dentist can detect and treat it before it causes permanent damage. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (281) 320-9600.