A trip to the dentist typically involves a checkup and a series of tips to ensure you’re looking after your teeth. But your dentist will also explain about the importance of caring for your gums too.
Maintaining healthy gums goes hand-in-hand with good brushing. Without focusing on your gums, we’re not fully focusing on your overall oral health. As well as contributing to a radiant smile, taking the time to care for your gums can prevent various dental issues.
If you’re looking for some ideas to keep your gums healthy, here are some top tips to help.
Why focus on gums?
One of the main issues caused by poor gum health is gum disease. Symptoms can include bleeding and swollen gums. If it’s not treated, it can cause bad breath and shrinking gums. It can also be the reason for teeth becoming loose – after all, your gums for the foundations for your teeth.
By adopting a simple routine, you could improve the health and appearance of your gums.
Use fluoride toothpaste
One of the simplest and most effective ways to promote gum health is by using fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening enamel and making teeth more resistant to acids in foods.
Public Health England recommends that all adults and children brush their teeth with fluoridated toothpaste at least twice daily to help prevent tooth decay. The fluoride content in toothpaste is typically sufficient to reduce the risk of decay, providing a strong defence against cavities.
Dental checkups
As well as offering advice during your checkup, dentists can detect early signs of gum disease that might go unnoticed. Through routine examinations, your dentist can identify symptoms such as gum inflammation, bleeding, or recession.
Early detection allows for quick intervention and treatment, preventing the progression of gum disease into more severe stages. Professional cleanings during these visits also help remove plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to healthier gums.
Water flosser
Flossing is a vital stage in your oral health routine. Standard dental floss can be a hugely beneficial way of removing debris from between the teeth.
But an cordless water flosser is an even more effective tool for gum health. This is because traditional flossing may struggle to reach areas between teeth and below the gumline where harmful bacteria thrive. Water flossers use a targeted stream of water to dislodge food and bacteria from these hard-to-reach places without causing damage like thread floss might.
Incorporating a water flosser into your oral care routine enhances the overall cleanliness of your mouth, contributing to healthier gums and reducing the risk of gum disease. Opt for a cordless dental flosser so that you can easily move around while caring for your teeth and gums.
Use a therapeutic mouthwash
Therapeutic mouthwashes, available over the counter, offer additional support for maintaining gum health. These mouthwashes often contain active ingredients such as antimicrobial agents that can help reduce plaque, prevent or alleviate gingivitis, and slow down the development of tartar.
However, it’s crucial to choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist to ensure its effectiveness and suitability for your specific needs.
It’s worth taking the time to focus on gum health.
