Taking care of your teeth and gums is a lifelong process that requires getting the right oral products and practicing daily healthy habits. Even if you are cavity-free and have the whitest teeth, that doesn’t make you immune to gum disease. Since it is typically painless, most people don’t realize something is wrong with their gums.
Gingivitis or gum disease starts when plaque builds up along and under the gum line. This can result in infections leading to pain in the gums and bone, which then causes tooth decay and gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis include inflammation, tenderness, swelling, bleeding, and redness. Luckily, this type of damage is reversible because the tissue and bone holding the teeth aren’t affected. The following tips will help you maintain the health of your teeth and gums so you can optimize your overall health.
Floss Regularly
Flossing is crucial for maintaining the health of your gums as it helps get rid of plaque and food particles that get trapped in unreachable areas of the mouth. It is difficult for the bristles of the toothbrush to get between the teeth, leading to plaque and bacterial buildup. However, dental floss can reach those difficult spots, thus limiting the likelihood of infection.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Dentists recommend using fluoride to prevent tooth decay by increasing the remineralization rate and slowing down enamel deterioration. Additionally, fluoride helps strengthen exposed roots and weak areas on the tooth’s enamel, thus preventing tooth decay.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Your diet plays an important role in maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Avoid sweetened and sticky foods like soda, candy, and ice cream, and try substituting them with calcium-dense foods to support the health of your mouth. Some foods that are excellent for your gums and teeth include
- Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and lettuce
- Nuts, like almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios
- Dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, and milk
Your doctor or dentist can give you better recommendations regarding what your body needs more.
Use Oral Hygiene Tools
While brushing and flossing are fundamental for keeping healthy gums and teeth, other tools can help take your dental care routine to the next level. These include tongue scrapers, interdental cleaners, oral irrigators, and mouthwash.
Do Regular At-home Examinations
Visiting a dentist twice a year is a must, but that doesn’t mean you should wait for your bi-annual checkups to get your mouth examined. As part of your daily routine, check your gums and teeth for anything unusual or concerning. Be sure to share this information with your dentist during your next appointment or call them without delay to discuss the symptoms.
Following these tips regularly can keep many serious issues at bay, save you some expensive dental procedures, and will keep your teeth and gums healthy.
