5 Ways to Care for Your Gums

When talking about the mouth’s health, it’s not just all about the straight and pearly white teeth. You should never forget about the gums holding them underneath. Even if you don’t have cavities, or if you think you have the whitest teeth and the most confident smile in town, this doesn’t make you immune from gum disease. Since it’s painless, people are not aware that something is off with their gums.

People tend to focus on getting the whitest teeth and confident smiles, not giving the same attention to their gums. However, note that your teeth will never be that healthy without the gums supporting them. So let’s discuss how to take better care of your gums so you can keep on smiling brilliantly.

How to Maintain Your Gum Health

Gum disease can result in tooth loss. Thankfully, there are viable steps for keeping your gums healthy and preventing that in the first place. Below are five effective tips for healthier gums.

1. Choose the best toothpaste

The toothpaste stalls in many stores contain wide varieties of toothpaste, from formulas containing baking soda to whitening products. However, individuals must ensure that the toothpaste they buy contains fluoride, and the packaging must have an ADA seal.

2. Properly brush your teeth

The way you brush your teeth will determine your teeth and gum health. While most people have their preferred way of brushing their teeth, dental experts recommend following the guidelines listed down below:

• Toothbrushing at least two times a day
• Replacing the toothbrush after 2 to 4 months of use, or earlier when the bristles begin to wear.
• Brushing 45-degree position to the gums.
• Moving the toothbrush in small strokes.
• Performing brief strokes for each tooth.
• Using fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

3. Use an antiseptic mouthwash

Don’t forget to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash after flossing or brushing to kill the remaining bacteria in your mouth. This can flush away harmful bacteria that can cause plaque to build up and even prevent mouth infections. Moreover, it’s good to carry your mouthwash with you most of the time and use it in the place of mints or gums for fresher breath.

4. Look out for signs of gum disease

Even if you’re already very careful and consistent with gum health maintenance, you must watch out for signs of gum disease. For starters, you must see if your gums are swelling or are feeling very tender. If you feel pain or swelling on any part of your gums, have a dentist check you immediately. If you notice loose or separating teeth, it could be a more serious problem that may require a professional’s attention.

5. See your dentist twice a year

An important factor that can keep your gums healthy is seeing your dentist twice yearly. During every visit, your dentist will perform a checkup to determine your gum health. You may do everything you can to keep your gum in shape, but it’s still inevitable to develop gum disease. The dentist may also perform a deep cleaning to eliminate bacteria on the teeth before it reaches the gums.

For more detailed manuals and advice about this topic, please see GP Dentistry House.