We are all told how important it is to look after our teeth. But not as much emphasis is put into caring for and maintaining our gums. Not many people realize the importance of this, which results in gum care often being overlooked. Gum disease is one of the main results of this lack of care. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen and lead to the removal or loss of your teeth. Therefore, it’s essential that you put just as much effort into maintaining healthy gums as you do your teeth. Use the instructions in this guide to help you get started today.
Brush Twice a Day
Your gums need to be brushed and cleaned just as regularly as your teeth. Use a soft bristled brush as this is much kinder to your teeth and gums. You need to make sure you are cleaning along the gumline as you brush. This removes food, plaque and bacteria from their surface and keeps them in top condition. Brush your teeth and gums for two minutes for a thorough clean. You should also use a dental mouthwash to remove any plaque and bacteria further. This should temporarily reduce the chances of you developing gum disease and plaque. Ask your dentist for their recommendations on mouthwash and toothbrushes you could use to keep your gums clean and healthy. You may also want to ask them to show you the correct brushing technique to refresh your memory.
Floss Every Day
Flossing allows us to access the areas in between our teeth that our toothbrushes cannot reach. Flossing every day is essential as it removes plaque and food, which could encourage the development of gum disease. You should do this at least one per day using dental floss, an interdental brush or a pre-threaded flosser. It can take some time to get used to if you have never done it before. But it’s the best way of caring for your gums. When you first start, your gums may be sensitive and bleed a little. This should stop as your gums get healthier, but if it doesn’t you need to see your dentist. You might be flossing incorrectly or have a dental issue that needs addressing. Your dentist can show you how to floss correctly and recommend which product you should use.
Visit Your Dentist Twice Per Year
To help you maintain your gums even further, you need to visit your dentist for a checkup and clean every six months. This allows them to prevent any issues with your teeth and gums before they become more severe. Getting your teeth scaled and polished also removes plaque and makes it harder for it to develop. This, in turn, makes it easier to maintain your oral hygiene and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Get in contact with your dentist to book an appointment to assess the condition of your oral health as soon as possible.
You can now introduce these methods into your oral care regime. They will keep your gums in fantastic condition while also improving the look of your teeth too.
