Say Goodbye to Gum Disease: 5 Simple Tips to Promote Healthy Gums

March 19, 2023 by Salt Lake Dental
Tips to Keep Your Gum Healthy

Are you tired of experiencing swollen, bleeding gums every time you brush your teeth? Gum disease can be a frustrating and painful experience, but the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to promote healthy gums. In this blog post, we’ll provide 5 easy tips to help you say goodbye to gum disease for good. From proper brushing techniques to incorporating certain foods into your diet, we’ve got you covered. So put down that mouthwash and read on for our top recommendations!

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque irritates the gums and causes them to become inflamed. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove. Gum disease can be prevented by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings.

Tips to Keep Your Gum Healthy

Here are 5 easy tips to keep your gum healthy, that will help you to promote healthy gums. Have a look!

Tip #1: Brush and Floss Regularly

The first step in preventing gum disease is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Brushing removes plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, while flossing cleans between them. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can cause gum inflammation and tooth loss.
To brush effectively, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions. Aim to brush for two minutes at least twice a day, or after every meal if possible. Be sure to brush your tongue as well – this removes bacteria and freshens your breath.
Flossing is just as important as brushing, but many people find it difficult. The key is to be gentle and use slow, back-and-forth motions. Start with about 18 inches (45 cm) of floss so you have enough to work with; wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about an inch (2.5 cm) between them. Use your thumbs to guide the floss between your teeth while being careful not to snap it into place. Curved pieces of floss called “plickers” can also be helpful in getting the floss under the gumline without injuring delicate tissue.
Remember – regular brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining healthy gums!

Tip #2: Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks

When it comes to gum disease, sugar is one of the worst offenders. Not only does it feed the bacteria that cause gum disease, but it also sticks to your teeth, providing a perfect breeding ground for plaque and tartar. By cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, you can help keep your gums healthy and reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to give up all of your favorite sweet treats. Just be sure to brush your teeth thoroughly after eating or drinking anything sugary. And limit yourself to moderate amounts of sugar – no more than six teaspoons per day for adults, according to the American Dental Association.
In addition to sugary foods and drinks, be sure to avoid sticky foods like candy or caramel. These can get stuck in your teeth and promote the growth of plaque and tartar. If you do eat sticky foods, be sure to brush your teeth right away so that the sugars don’t have a chance to damage your teeth or gums.

Tip #3: Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco use is a leading cause of gum disease. Smoking and chewing tobacco damage the gums and teeth, and make it harder for the body to fight infection. If you use tobacco, quitting is the best way to reduce your risk of gum disease.

Tip #4: Use Mouth Rinse

To keep your gums healthy, it is important to remove plaque from your teeth every day. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed.
One way to remove plaque from your teeth is to use a mouth rinse. Mouth rinses do not replace brushing and flossing, but they can help to remove plaque that has built up on your teeth. There are many different types of mouth rinses available, so be sure to ask your dentist or dental hygienist which one is right for you.
Mouth rinses can be used once or twice a day after you brush and floss your teeth. To use a mouth rinse, simply follow the directions on the package. Be sure to swish the rinse around in your mouth for the recommended amount of time before spitting it out.

Tip #5: Visit Your Dentist Regularly

If you want to keep your gums healthy, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can help you identify any early signs of gum disease and can provide you with periodontal treatment options to keep your gums healthy.

Conclusion

Taking care of your gums is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. We hope our five tips have given you some simple strategies that you can incorporate into your daily routine to help keep your gums in good shape and prevent gum disease. Remember, regular brushing and flossing, along with healthy eating habits, are key components to keeping your mouth clean and free from infection. With a bit of dedication, you’ll be able to ensure that you have healthy gums for years to come!

FAQs:

Q: How can I prevent gum disease? 

A: The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. 

Q: What are the symptoms of gum disease?

A: Symptoms of gum disease can include bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. 

Q: How is gum disease treated? 

A: Gum disease is treated by a process called scaling and root planing. This involves removing the plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. Your dentist may also recommend other treatments such as antibiotics or surgery.