The gums are one of the most essential tissues in the mouth. They help to protect the teeth and keep them in their place.
However, just as it occurs with the teeth, the gums can be affected by bacteria and diseases. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any issues. Fortunately, this can be easily done through a few simple methods.
We'll provide a few tips in this article to keep the gums healthy and explain why it is important.
1. Brush twice a day
Brushing your teeth not only protects them against cavities but also the gums against gum disease.
Brushing removes the plaque or biofilm that forms around the teeth, especially at the gum line. This clear and sticky film is home to harmful bacteria that attack the gums. As a result, if it is not removed, it causes the gums to swell and bleed.
Plaque builds up constantly throughout the day. However, it is easy to remove. Therefore, brushing the teeth twice a day can keep the gums and teeth healthy.
2. Use a soft bristle toothbrush
Bacteria are not the only ones capable of harming the gums. Brushing too hard or using a hard bristle toothbrush can cause the gums to recede. This leaves the teeth' roots exposed and can cause sensitivity.
A soft bristle smart toothbrush acts gently on the gums and is less likely to cause receding gums. Nonetheless, it is also essential to brush using the correct technique.
The bristles should be placed at a 45-degree angle against the teeth and gums. Afterward, the toothbrush should be moved gently in a back-and-forth motion.
3. Floss daily
Flossing is the secret to healthy gums. Moreover, it is the only way to ensure they remain completely healthy.
Flossing is the only method to efficiently remove plaque and food leftovers between teeth. These are tight spaces where the toothbrush bristles can't reach. Furthermore, gum disease usually begins in these areas.
Therefore, cleaning properly between teeth and preventing gum disease is impossible without flossing, and with the help of water flosser, it will be much more easier.
4. Don't smoke
Smoking is closely associated with gum disease. It weakens the immune system and interferes with the healing process.
As a result, the body doesn't react as strongly as it should against bacteria. This causes gum disease to develop easier. Additionally, smoking also makes it harder for the mouth to recover from gum disease.
5. Visit a dentist every 6 months
Even with good oral hygiene, some areas are hard to clean and prone to develop plaque and calculus. Fortunately, a dentist can perform a cleaning to remove calculus in these areas and prevent gum disease. It is essential to understand that once plaque turns into calculus, only a dentist can remove it through a dental cleaning.
Also, the dentist can examine the entire mouth during these regular checkups and look for early signs of disease. This way, it is possible to provide a less invasive treatment before the case becomes complex.
Why is gum's health important?
The gums help keep the teeth protected. However, they can be easily affected by bacteria.
Although gum disease is painless and usually doesn't cause discomfort, it can evolve into periodontitis. Not only this condition affects the gums, but also the bone supporting the teeth. Therefore, the teeth eventually become loose and can even result in a missing tooth.
For this reason, it is vital to visit the dentist if the gums become swollen and bleed while brushing.
References:
- American Dentistry Association. (n.d.). Gum disease - periodontal disease. MouthHealthy. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/gum-disease
- Feintuch, S. (2019, July 3). 6 ways to keep your gums healthy. Healthline. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/ways-to-keep-gums-healthy#quit-smoking
- Frisbee, E. (2021, July 30). Gum disease (gingivitis & periodontitis): Symptoms, causes, treatment. WebMD. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease
- Frisbee, E. (2021, October 31). Top reasons to keep your gums healthy. WebMD. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-gums
