What to Do to Keep Gums Healthy
Good oral hygiene is the first step towards preventing gum disease as well as its treatment, but many people don’t think of the health of their gums as they perform their oral hygiene routine. Keeping gums healthy is just as important as keeping teeth healthy, so Athens Oconee Dentistry has provided come ways to ensure the health of your gums.
7 Ways to Keep the Gums Healthy
By changing your habits even just a small bit, you can keep your teeth and gums cleaner than they’ve ever been and prevent gum disease and other oral health issues.
Brush the Teeth Properly
Brushing your teeth the proper way is important to keeping your teeth and gums healthy and clean. Brush twice a day using a 45 degree angle to brush the gums, pressing gently and cleaning the inside of teeth by brushing vertically.
Choose the Right Toothpaste
Toothpaste in the store has many varieties, but you should pick a toothpaste that contains fluoride ans is approved by the ADA, or American Dental Association.
Floss Daily
There are many people that neglect flossing, but this is a highly important part of taking care of your mouth. Remove plaque and other materials from the mouth by flossing between each tooth once a day.
Rinse Your Mouth Out with Care
Many people rinse their mouth after brushing, but this can wash away beneficial fluoride as well. Keep fluoride on teeth for as long as possible, and opt to skip rinsing the entire mouth with water every once in a while.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash has both functional and cosmetic uses, removing plaque and food from the mouth while preventing the development of gum disease. Use mouthwash after brushing for maximum benefits.
Get Regular Dental Checkups
A professional dental exam and cleaning can keep the mouth from building up tartar and plaque that has not been removed by brushing. Visiting your dentist twice a year allows them to prevent oral health issues, such as gum disease.
Stop Smoking
Smoking can make the mouth more vulnerable to developing gum disease and other health issues due to its effect on the immune system. Lessen or lower the amount you smoke to avoid future dental issues.