Your gums are a critical piece of the oral health puzzle. But shockingly, many people ignore their gum health altogether! In fact, about 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women 30 years or older have some level of periodontitis (gum disease). If left untreated, gum disease can result in some serious complications, such as receding gums, tooth sensitivity, mouth sores, halitosis (chronic bad breath), tooth loss, and more.

But don’t worry! Those complications don’t have to affect you because maintaining your gum health is simple. Let’s dive in and discover some daily tips for healthy gums.

 

Brush & Floss

It’s essential to brush your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride-infused toothpaste, to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. Brushing also helps in removing harmful bacteria and reducing bad breath.

Did you know that only 30% of Americans floss daily, around 37% report flossing less than daily, and approximately 32% say they never floss? Flossing daily can remove up to 80% of interdental plaque and is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.

 

Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash

Not all mouthwashes are the same. Many common mouthwashes are cosmetic, meaning they only temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a pleasant taste in your mouth. However, therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients that can kill bacteria and help reduce gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath. Some therapeutic mouthwashes also have fluoride to prevent or minimize tooth decay. These mouthwashes are beneficial because they can reach areas of your mouth that your toothbrush can't, helping to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Check the label before you buy – a therapeutic mouth wash should contain active ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, fluoride, and peroxide.

 

Use a Gum Stimulator

This oral health tool is lesser known than a tooth brush or pack of floss, but it’s important, too! Gum stimulators are hand-held tools with a silicone or rubber tip attached to a long metal arm. They can be helpful for cleaning between your teeth, especially if you have wide gaps or missing teeth. They benefit your oral health by massaging your gum tissue, which can help prevent gum disease. They also help remove food particles and plaque, which can also help prevent gum disease and cavities.

 

Eat a Gum-Healthy Diet

It’s evident that what you eat affects your gut, but some don’t know that it can affect your gums, too! Generally speaking, a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet is best for your gum health. Essentially, if it’s good for your body, it’s good for your gums! Here are a few specific foods for healthy gums:

 

·  Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties that promote healthy tissue in your mouth and prevent gum disease.

·  Apples contain polyphenols and antioxidants, which help neutralize bacteria that cause dental issues such as cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.

·  Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products are packed with calcium, which supports teeth and gum health.

·  High-fiber stringy foods like raw spinach and celery cause your mouth to produce extra saliva, helping wash away harmful acids.

‍

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Your daily habits can go a long way in protecting your gum health, but you can’t do it all! A crucial part of maintaining healthy gums is having regular dental check-ups every six months. During a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar that you may have missed with your daily efforts.

Healthy gums are within reach! Are you ready to schedule your appointment? Contact us today!

‍