Oral Hygiene: 5 Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Updated on October 19, 2020

Did you know that nearly half of American adults have gum disease? The same data shows that this condition impacts at least a whopping 70 percent of the elderly.

If you don’t practice good oral hygiene, you can face problems ranging from painful, bleeding gums to eventual tooth loss. The bacteria can even enter your bloodstream and cause serious health issues. And if you’re looking to enhance your smile, be sure to consider Dental Veneers solutions in Lancaster.

Luckily, maintaining healthy gums doesn’t require anything too complex on your part. Read on for five tips on how to improve gum health.

1. Don’t Skip Your Dental Checkups

To maintain your oral health and spot problems early, make it a habit to visit the dentist for checkups and cleanings at least twice a year. This will get harmful buildup removed from your teeth and under your gums.

Your dentist can also warn you about decay and gum problems and offer advice on better home care. You can find a dentist who understands the importance of preventative care at Boisedentist.com.

2. Brush Your Teeth Properly

If you don’t brush your teeth at least twice daily, begin that practice today. Even better, brush after meals and sugary snacks as well.

For healthy gums, brush using fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Use short strokes in a circular motion and don’t forget the back of your teeth as well.

3. Find a Good Mouthwash

If you’re looking into how to improve gum health, consider adding a therapeutic mouthwash into your daily routine. You can find a mouthwash designed to reduce plague buildup so that your gums get less inflamed. 

Usually, you’ll want to use the mouthwash at least daily after you brush and floss. This usually means swishing it around your mouth for 20 to 30 seconds.

4. Floss Every Day

While you may find it annoying, flossing goes a long way toward improving your oral health. It helps get out the gunk between your teeth that your brush just can’t reach.

Try to floss before bedtime at a minimum. For the best results, have your dentist demonstrate proper flossing technique on your next visit.

5. Stop Habits That Harm Your Oral Health

Both smoking and poor eating habits can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. So, it’s crucial to watch your behaviors carefully so that you don’t undo the benefits you get from regular brushing and flossing.

If you’re a smoker, consider quitting. This habit harms your immune system and slows down healing.

When choosing foods, steer away from acidic, starchy, and sugary foods. Instead, aim for a diet rich with milk, fruit, and veggies.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene for Healthy Gums

Practicing these tips for healthy gums will protect your oral health and help you avoid costly treatments for gum disease. But if you do end up with gum health issues, talk to your dentist as soon as possible.

If your gum disease gets caught early, a thorough dental cleaning and better home care can prevent further damage. Surgical treatments can help with more advanced cases of gum disease.

Our blog features plenty other oral hygiene tips to protect your teeth and gums, so go view our other posts!

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