3 Tips for Gum Health

Maintaining gum health is important to keep the oral cavity in good condition. Gum disease occurs when people fail to take proper care of their gums. It helps to know ways to improve gum health to prevent infections that can damage the soft and hard tissues of the teeth.
Tips for gum health
Gum disease causes tooth loss if it is not treated on time. The condition starts as gum inflammation and is sometimes indicated by bleeding, tender, or swollen gums. The following are ways to maintain healthy gums:
1. Practice good oral hygiene
If plaque accumulates on the teeth, it causes dental problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. Without proper oral hygiene, the plaque will linger on the teeth and harden into tartar, which can only be removed by an experienced dentist. It is important to brush the teeth and gums thoroughly, at least twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste.
Good brushing is essential, but it must go together with flossing. Food particles can easily get into areas around the teeth and gums that the toothbrush cannot reach. Floss can reach those areas and dislodge the debris before it can cause major issues. Also, when brushing, it is important to clean the tongue, because it is the landing area for different germs and bacteria. Using mouthwashes and tongue scrapers can help remove the germs; all together, these practices can be effective for maintaining gum health.
2. Go for regular dental cleanings
Visiting the dentist regularly ensures early detection of gum disease symptoms. This allows the dentist to treat symptoms of the disease before they become complicated. Professional cleaning is the only effective way to clean tartar off the teeth and gums. It also allows the dentist to clean areas that the patients may have missed while brushing or flossing. If gingivitis is present, home oral hygiene and dental cleanings can stop the progression of the disease.
Biannual visits to the dentist are essential for preventing oral diseases and keeping the mouth healthy. The dentist can also show patients how to clean their teeth properly.
3. Quit smoking
The effect of smoking on oral health is one of the reasons to quit the habit. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking and tobacco use limit the body’s immunity and ability to fight gum infections. Smoking also increases the risk of developing gum disease and can affect healing after the disease sets in. It is advisable to speak with a dentist about safe and healthy methods of quitting tobacco use.
In conclusion
The tips listed above are effective for maintaining gum health and reducing the chances of developing gum disease. Remember that you need to visit the dentist immediately if you notice something wrong with your gums. Regular appointments are vital for oral health. Since gum disease may not cause pain or noticeable symptoms at first, dental checkups can help to detect and stop the disease before it causes damage to the oral cavity.
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