Gum disease is a silent killer.

It can cause tooth loss, bad breath, and even heart disease. But it’s preventable! Follow these 8 simple tips to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.

7/7/2023 – 2 min read

How to Maintain Gum Health

Your gums are an important part of your overall oral health. They help to hold your teeth in place and protect your teeth from decay. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that can damage your gums and lead to tooth loss.

There are a number of things you can do to maintain gum health. Here are a few tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride.Brushing teeth twice a day
• Floss once a day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where brushing can’t reach. Use a soft-waxed floss and slide it gently between your teeth.Flossing once a day
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach. They can also check for signs of gum disease.See dentist for regular checkups
• Eat a healthy diet. Eating a diet that is low in sugar and processed foods can help to prevent gum disease. Choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead of sugary snacks and drinks.Eating a healthy diet
• Quit smoking. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral health.Quit smoking

Here are some additional tips for maintaining gum health:

• Use a water flosser. A water flosser can be a good alternative to traditional flossing, especially for people with braces or other dental appliances.Water flosser
• Use mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. However, it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing.Mouthwash
• Get regular dental checkups. Even if you do everything else right, you still need to see your dentist for regular checkups. Your dentist can check for signs of gum disease and other oral health problems.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your gums healthy and strong. Good oral health is important for your overall health, so it’s worth taking the time to take care of your gums.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• Gum disease is more common in adults over the age of 30. However, it can affect people of all ages.
• Some people are more likely to develop gum disease than others. This includes people who have a family history of gum disease, people who smoke, and people who have diabetes.
• Gum disease can cause a number of problems, including tooth loss, bad breath, and pain. It can also increase your risk of developing other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

If you have any concerns about your gum health, be sure to see your dentist. They can help you to develop a personalized treatment plan to keep your gums healthy.

REFERENCE:

University of Rochester Medical Center. “Gum Disease.” Encyclopedia, University of Rochester Medical Center, 2023, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=1409. Accessed July 7, 2023.