A General Dentist Explains What to do for Healthy Gums

General dentists say keeping the gums healthy is just as important as having healthy teeth. Healthy gums are less likely to develop disease or infection, which ensures an overall healthy oral cavity. Additionally, healthy gums promote healthier teeth, which keeps cavities and abscesses at bay. 

According to a general dentist, healthy gums appear pink and firm with no signs of inflammation, tenderness, or bleeding. When looking to maintain healthy gums, it is best to review the following information. 

A general dentist shares tips for healthy gums

Some things that are practiced to maintain healthy teeth are also useful as they relate to the gums' health. Below are a few things to do to keep the gums healthy:

1. Brush twice daily

Brushing removes plaque and bacteria from teeth surfaces and the gumlines. Plaque can get into the gumline, which leads to the immune system trying to fight off the infection. The result is gum disease, which can lead to teeth falling out when left untreated.

Brushing teeth and gumlines twice a day helps to remove plaque and bacteria, thus promoting good gum health. The toothbrush should be gently run over the gums to remove any plaque that has built up. General dentists recommend brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the gums or damaging teeth enamel. 

2. Floss each day

As with brushing, flossing removes plaque and bacteria, which keeps the gumlines and teeth healthy. Since the bristles of a toothbrush cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth, dental floss is used to clean these areas. Try flossing at least once daily to protect teeth and stimulate the gums.

3. Get regular teeth cleanings

This goes a long way to keeping teeth and gums healthy. Regardless of how well a person brushes their teeth, calcified plaque – called tartar—will accumulate on them. Tartar promotes tooth decay and gum disease, an infection that can make its way beneath the gum line, where it infects the tissues.

5. Use an electric toothbrush

People who brush with an electric toothbrush tend to have cleaner teeth than those who use manual toothbrushes. A manual toothbrush can be as effective as an electric one if proper brushing techniques are used. An electric toothbrush does all the work while the user holds it at a 45-degree angle and moves it along the teeth. Electric toothbrushes stimulate the gums with their pulsation, helping them to remain healthy, which is why general dentists also use them in the office. 

6. Do not smoke

Smoking tobacco products increases a person's risk of developing gum disease and infections. Stopping this habit allows the gums to heal from the effects and get back to a healthy state. 

7. Use an antibacterial mouthwash

An antibacterial mouthwash gives a person's gum tissues an extra layer of protection. It kills the type of bacteria that causes gum disease, reducing plaque and tartar buildup in the mouth. Plaque and tartar are the two most significant factors that lead to gum disease since they provide a haven for bacteria in the mouth.

Look for an antibacterial mouthwash containing fluoride to re-mineralize your teeth while reducing bacteria populations.

8. Keep your blood sugar in the healthy zone

High blood sugar increases your risk of developing gum disease, especially if you have diabetes. Some of the sugar in the blood is transferred into the mouth via saliva, giving oral bacteria the food they convert into acids that damage teeth, plaque, and tartar.

9. Eat a gum-healthy diet

Some foods and beverages a person consumes can hurt their gum tissues. Sticky, starchy, and sugary foods are the worst culprits since they provide sugars oral bacteria can convert into acids. Consume less processed and sugary foods and eat healthier foods like green leafy vegetables and fruits. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, cucumbers, and carrots are great for teeth and gums since they increase saliva production. Saliva is a natural mouth cleanser, so foods that encourage saliva production are typically good for you.

Dairy products are also good for your gum health. They are an excellent source of calcium which helps strengthen teeth. Dairy products also encourage the development of healthy bacteria in the mouth. 

We can take care of your gums

If you are struggling with inflamed or bleeding gums, it is a sign to seek care. Early intervention can help treat gum infections and diseases before they cause more dental issues. Stop by our Plantation practice or give us a call to learn more about how to keep the gums healthy and kick the habits that contribute to inflammation and infection.

Request an appointment here: https://www.soflodentistinplantation.com or call Gorfinkel Dentistry at (954) 231-5007 for an appointment in our Plantation office.

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