Have you noticed your teeth are appearing longer or your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? Your gums may need a little extra care! Properly caring for your gums is equally as important as caring for your teeth. Check out our top tips for keeping your gums in tip-top shape!
Maintain a Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
Your gum health relies heavily on your at-home oral hygiene. Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day and spending two minutes brushing your teeth every time. Use an electric toothbrush with soft bristles to target bacteria and food debris lingering just below the gumline. In addition to brushing your teeth, brush your tongue and floss between your teeth every day. Flossing dislodges trapped particles that will irritate your gums.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco usage can cause a wide range of gum issues. Both chewing and smoking tobacco will shrink the gums, increase your risk of infection, and contribute to gum disease. Additionally, tobacco weakens the immune system, which will have a negative impact on your overall health.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration can have a huge impact on your gum health! When you’re dehydrated, your saliva production drastically decreases. Saliva is a natural cleanser that helps flush out harmful bacteria and balance the mouth’s pH. When saliva production decreases, bad bacteria have more opportunity to accumulate. Chronic dry mouth can result in infection and gum disease.
Schedule a Dental Visit!
Keep up with your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. During a professional cleaning, our team thoroughly cleans plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. And exams allow us to catch any issues and treat them while they’re still small. If your gums need some TLC, we offer gentle periodontal therapy. So if you’re overdue for a dental appointment, please contact Bridge Dental Care to schedule a visit!