Gum disease is highly preventable if you practice excellent oral hygiene.
While most people focus on tooth care, your gums’ health is equally significant as they surround and support your teeth and jawbones. Your gums function as barriers against oral infection and disease. Fortunately, gum disease is highly preventable if you practice excellent oral hygiene tips.
Practice Good Teeth Brushing and Flossing
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is vital because it helps eliminate food and prevent plaque from developing in your mouth. Plaque can also harden under the gum line and become tartar. Tartar buildup can cause inflammation, leading to gum disease and possibly tooth loss.
To maintain healthy gums, brush your teeth for two minutes every time. Keeping your teeth clean prevents gum disease and cavities. After brushing your teeth, gently floss them to reach the small spaces between your teeth and under the gum line to avoid hurting your gums.
Eat a Healthy Diet
The foods you eat may also significantly impact your oral hygiene. Minimizing your intake of sugary, starchy, and chewy foods is advisable, as they contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Instead, consume whole foods with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. For instance, fibrous foods like apples, celery, and leafy greens require a lot of chewing, which helps clean the mouth. Additionally, dairy products such as milk and cheese increase saliva production and contain bone-strengthening calcium.
No Smoking
Smoking comes with several health risks because it weakens your immune system and puts you at a higher risk for gum disease. Chemicals in tobacco products also impact saliva production in the mouth, making it easier for bacteria to stick to your gums. Compared to non-smokers, smokers are twice as likely to form gum disease. Poor oral hygiene may result in tooth loss and several other medical issues.
Visit the Dentist Routinely
Your dentist can help you prevent gum disease by detecting oral health problems earlier. This is why you should schedule regular check-ups and cleanings every six months. Be sure to talk to your dentist if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Tender, red, or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
Annapolis Dental Care is here to answer any questions or concerns you have. Call us today at 410-267-0766 to request an appointment.
Transform Your Smile with Annapolis Dental Care
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. Please give us a call at 410-267-0766 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, X, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!