When you think about a healthy smile, your teeth may be the first thing that comes to mind. But healthy gums are just as important. Your gums help support and protect your teeth, and taking care of them is an essential part of maintaining good oral health.
The good news is that a few consistent habits can go a long way toward keeping your gums healthy. From brushing and flossing to regular dental visits, here's what you can do to protect your gums every day.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brushing your teeth twice a day helps remove plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and along your gumline. If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can irritate your gums and contribute to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush gently for about two minutes. Pay attention to the area where your teeth meet your gums without scrubbing aggressively.
Brushing too hard can irritate your gums and contribute to gum recession, so gentle, thorough brushing is more beneficial than using excessive pressure.
Clean Between Your Teeth Every Day
Even a thorough toothbrush can't effectively clean every space between your teeth. That's why cleaning between your teeth should be part of your daily routine.
Traditional dental floss can help remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and beneath the gumline. If traditional floss isn't comfortable or easy for you to use, your dentist or hygienist may recommend alternatives such as floss picks or an interdental brush.
The most important thing is finding an option that works for you and using it consistently.
Don't Ignore Bleeding Gums
It's not unusual to notice a little blood when you first start flossing regularly, particularly if you haven't been cleaning between your teeth consistently. However, persistent or frequent bleeding shouldn't simply be ignored.
Bleeding, red, swollen, or tender gums can be signs of gingivitis or another periodontal concern. If your gums regularly bleed when you brush or floss, let your dental team know. They can evaluate your gums and help determine what's causing the problem.
Be Mindful of Your Diet
What you eat can affect your overall oral health, too. Frequently consuming sugary foods and drinks can contribute to plaque buildup and increase your risk of tooth decay, while a balanced diet provides nutrients your body needs to support healthy tissues.
Try to limit frequent snacking on sugary foods and sipping sugary beverages throughout the day. Drinking water regularly can also help rinse away food particles and support saliva production.
You don't have to eliminate every treat from your diet. Instead, focus on making nutritious choices most of the time and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking and other tobacco use can have a significant impact on your oral health. Tobacco can increase your risk of gum disease and may make it more difficult for your gums to heal.
If you use tobacco, talk with your healthcare provider or dental team about resources that can help you quit. Avoiding tobacco is an important step toward protecting both your oral and overall health.
Protect Your Gums and Teeth
Some everyday habits can put unnecessary stress on your teeth and the surrounding tissues. Don't use your teeth to open packages, bite your nails, or chew on hard objects.
If you grind or clench your teeth, particularly while sleeping, talk with your dentist. A custom nightguard may be appropriate in some cases to help protect your teeth from excessive forces.
If you participate in contact sports or activities where your mouth could be injured, wearing an appropriately fitted mouthguard can also help protect your teeth and gums.
Keep Up With Regular Dental Visits
Even a good at-home routine can't remove every bit of plaque and tartar. Regular dental appointments allow your dental team to clean areas that are difficult to reach at home and monitor the health of your gums over time.
During your visits, your dentist and hygienist can look for signs of gum inflammation, recession, periodontal disease, and other changes. If a concern is identified, addressing it early may help prevent it from progressing into a more serious concern.
How often you need dental visits depends on your individual oral health and risk factors, so follow the schedule recommended by your dental team.
Know the Signs of Gum Disease
Knowing what healthy gums look and feel like can help you recognize changes. Healthy gums are generally firm and don't bleed easily.
Contact your dentist if you notice:
- Gums that bleed frequently when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from your teeth
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
- Changes in the appearance of your gums
These symptoms don't necessarily mean you have advanced gum disease, but they are worth discussing with your dental team.
Give Your Gums the Care They Deserve
Healthy gums are an important foundation for a healthy smile. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, making mindful choices about your diet, avoiding tobacco, and protecting your teeth can all help support your gum health.
Just as importantly, don't skip your regular dental appointments. Professional cleanings and routine examinations give your dental team an opportunity to monitor your gums and address potential problems.
At Midtown Dental, we're here to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums at every stage of life. If it's been a while since your last dental visit or you've noticed changes in your gums, contact our team to schedule an appointment.
Healthy gums start with consistent care. Make your oral health a priority and schedule your next dental visit with Midtown Dental today.
