A healthy mouth is not just about straight teeth and bright smiles. These things are useless if you don’t have healthy gums. You should beware of gum disease, especially since this problem does not come with pain, and you won’t notice it right away.
Learn more about gum disease and what you can do to keep your gums healthy when you continue reading.
What Is Gum Disease?
It’s a well-known fact that plaque is the root of all dental problems. It’s a thin layer of bacteria that you find on your teeth. When the plaque builds up, it can harden into tartar and calculus. In the process, plaque can cause gum disease.
Gum disease is also called periodontal disease and can result in gingivitis. When left untreated, your gums will get worse, and you can start experiencing tooth mobility, tooth loss, and bad breath. It’s a severe condition that can only be treated when it’s discovered in its early stages.
How Can You Keep Your Gums Healthy?
1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
If you want to prevent gum disease, you have to start with your oral hygiene. Regular brushing is important to prevent plaque from damaging your gums, but it’s not enough.
You should learn what a good brushing technique is and use floss and mouthwash to help you get rid of the bacteria. Try to do it twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
2. Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash
If you want to keep your gums healthy and strong, you need a mouthwash that contains antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-plaque active ingredients. This will help you fight plaque buildup, and it will also improve your breath at the same time.
3. Use the Right Toothpaste
You should also keep an eye on your toothpaste since some can damage your gums. Using a whitening toothpaste or those containing baking soda can irritate your gums and even damage them.
A better alternative is to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. These kinds of toothpaste can help restore the protective layer around your teeth and get rid of plaque and tartar, but the most important thing is to use the right amount.
If you use too much, you might actually do more harm than good. Instead, you should use a pea-sized amount.
4. Quit Smoking
When it comes to gum disease, smoking is one of the most dangerous habits. Tobacco is a disease-causing substance, and it can cause your gums to recede and bleed.
If you want to preserve your gums, you must quit smoking. If you can’t stop on your own, ask your dentist for help.
5. Visit Your Dentist for Cleanings Regularly
Your gums can actually tell you if something’s wrong. You need to see your dentist if they’re red, swollen, or have pus-like discharge. These are symptoms of gum disease, and if you let it untreated, you might lose your teeth.
This might be the most important thing you can do to prevent gum disease. Go to the dentist whenever you have a chance, even if it’s just three to six months after your last appointment.
Final Thoughts
No one likes to think about gum disease and oral hygiene, but it is something you need to do. Your gums are just as important as your teeth, and you must take good care of them. With these habits, you can prevent gum disease and keep your gums strong and healthy.
Maintain gum health by regularly visiting Liberia Dental Care, home of the best dentist in Manassas. We offer unique dental care to patients of all ages to ensure you’re free from any type of problems. Message us today to book an appointment.
