The Smile Daily

Gum Care Tips & Tricks: 5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Have you heard? September is National Gum Care Month, which means now is as great a time as any to brush up on your gum care routine.

When you think about a healthy smile, you probably think of your teeth. It turns out, however, that your gums are just as important. In this guide, we’ll dive into why gum health matters, how to stay on top of it, and what to do if you have a gum issue.

Why Does Gum Health Matter?

Your gums play a pretty important role in your mouth—keeping your teeth in place! So, healthy gums make it possible to do things like eat and talk comfortably. Your gums also protect against cavities and the spread of harmful bacteria.

Just like there are many benefits to taking care of your gums, unhealthy gums can cause problems. People with gum disease have a higher risk of other health issues. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is linked to conditions like dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Preventing gum disease reduces your risk of other health problems.

Tips to Keep Keep Your Gums Healthy

1. Brush your teeth twice a day.

Keeping a regular brushing routine benefits more than just your teeth; it’s also important for your gums. If you use a manual toothbrush, look for one with soft bristles and hold it at a 45-degree angle when you’re brushing. That way, you’ll be able to whisk away any food particles and keep plaque and bacteria from building up along the gum line. Consider investing in an electric toothbrush which can help you be even more effective at keeping your gums clean.

2. Floss every day.

Regular flossing is one of the best ways to care for your gums. Floss removes the buildup between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Without flossing, harmful bacteria can affect your gums and teeth, leading to issues down the road. If you don’t already floss, pick a time of day to begin to build the habit. For some people, flossing during their nighttime brushing routine works well while others might opt for a midday or morning floss.

3. Schedule regular dental visits.

Cleanings and dental exams are a great way to keep tabs on your gums and make sure no issues go overlooked. Your hygienist will periodically measure the tightness of your gums around your teeth by probing the “pockets” of your gums with a small tool. These measures can highlight any changes in your gum health over time which might need a little TLC.

4. Quit smoking.

Smoking has many negative impacts on your health—including your gum health. The CDC says smokers have double the risk of developing gum disease as a normal patient. More tobacco and longer use increases your risk. So, if you don’t smoke, don’t start! And if you do, the best choice for your dental health is to stop smoking.

5. Eat a healthy diet.

Bad bacteria thrive on junk food, like sugary treats and acidic sodas. A well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins benefits your body and your mouth. It’s okay to enjoy your favorite snacks every now and then, but it’s a good idea to limit them. Eat a healthy diet to promote gum health and prevent the bacteria that harm your gums from spreading.

Warning Signs: When to Call Your Dentist

These symptoms may be early clues of a gum-related issue.

• Bleeding gums
• Changes to your bite
• Consistently bad breath
• Loose or receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Puffy, swollen, or red gums
• Increased sensitivity
• Pain while chewing

If you notice any changes to your gums, always call our office. A dental exam with your dentist is the best way to determine if you’re at risk for developing gum disease.

Easy Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

The best way to treat gum disease is to avoid it altogether. Try these easy tips to keep up your gum health.

• Follow your dentist’s advice about brushing, flossing, and regular hygiene visits.
• Let your doctor know if you struggle with dry mouth since this can lead to gum disease.
• Don’t ignore concerning symptoms.
• Try using an antibacterial mouthwash, in addition to your normal routine.
• Double down on your healthy gum routine if you’re experiencing significant hormonal changes or are pregnant.
• Schedule the appropriate type of cleaning. Some patients require a “deep cleaning” to support their gum needs.

Learn More: My Dentist Says I Can't Get a Normal Cleaning, Why?

Norge Dental Center: Your Partner in Gum Health

Whether you’re looking to prevent gum issues in the future or you already have signs of gum disease, we can help. Our friendly doctors and staff provide personalized dental care to meet you exactly where you are. Call our office to learn more about the services we offer and to schedule your next cleaning appointment.