Top Five Ways You Can Maintain Healthy Gums
We all know by now that we should brush our teeth at least two times a day. But is that enough? Studies have directly linked gum disease to many dangerous health conditions, and correctly caring for your teeth and gums is an important factor in maintaining your overall health.
It has been well documented that when plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth, eventually inflammation of the gums will occur. The inflammation then leads to infections and gum disease that can destroy the gum tissue and the bone structure that protects the teeth. What is not completely understood is how gum disease leads to other health conditions such as diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, dementia, cardiovascular disease, and others, but it is very wise to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy.
The good news is that you can improve your overall gum health yourself.
What Can I Do To Keep My Gums Healthy?
- Brush your teeth properly – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, but make sure you are doing it the right way. An electric toothbrush does a much better job at cleaning and removing plaque than a standard toothbrush. Plus you get the added benefit of the toothbrush doing all the work. Brushing too hard with a standard toothbrush can cause too much pressure on the gums, causing them to recede. When you brush your teeth, don’t forget to brush your gums as well as your tongue. They both can harbor harmful bacteria.
- Flossing – Floss at least once a day. Plaque can get into hard-to-reach areas a toothbrush can’t access. There’s no perfect time of the day to floss. Morning, before bed, or after lunch. It doesn’t matter as long as you do it one time every day.
- Mouthwash – Mouthwash not only leaves your breath feeling fresh and clean, but it is also a great way to prevent or reduce the signs of gum disease.
- Regular dental check-ups – Your dentist will identify problems developing with your gums long before you can. A routine dental check-up and professional cleaning every six months is an important step in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. Your treatment will catch the signs of developing gum disease or cavities to be correctly treated before problems worsen, requiring more expensive treatment.
- Quit smoking – Smoking has been linked to the early onset of gum disease. It weakens your body’s ability to fight infection.
Choose Hardin Advanced Dentistry for All of Your Dental Needs
At Hardin Advanced Dentistry, we are committed to providing the most effective treatments and procedures to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. We stay ahead of the curve in the latest advancements, and Dr. Hardin is in the top one percent of practitioners in credentials and education. We understand that dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all approach, so when you visit Hardin Advanced Dentistry, you will never feel like just another patient. You will experience a warm and welcoming staff that cares not only about your teeth, but your overall health and wellbeing too. Contact us today and schedule a consultation for any and all of your dental needs.
