Chances are that you already know your oral health plays a major role in the overall health of your body. Gum disease has been linked to issues with heart health and may lead to an increase in respiratory infections as bacteria enter the respiratory system from the gums. It can even have an impact on your nutrition and how you feel about yourself. The question is, what do you need to do to keep your gums healthy?
All you have to do for healthy gums is follow some of these top tips:
Brush Twice a Day
The first and perhaps most obvious thing you can do is to brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. However, you need to pay attention to more than just those pearly whites when you scrub. Make sure that you are brushing the gum line where the tooth meets with the gums just as much as you brush the surface of the teeth. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush that gets replaced every quarter.
Floss and Use Mouthwash Regularly
While it’s recommended that you brush twice a day, you only really have to worry about flossing once. You can use the traditional dental floss that you wrap around your fingers or get fancy with gadgets like a water flosser. No matter what your preference is, make sure you take the time to work it between every tooth.
In addition to flossing, it’s important to take care of your mouth by using mouthwash to remove additional food particles and bacteria. Look for specially-marked bottles that are proven to reduce tartar, plaque, and gingivitis. This can help remove bacteria in the mouth that were left behind after brushing and flossing.
Schedule Regular Cleanings
The best way to stay on top of any potential issues with your gums is to let a professional take a peek at them on a regular basis. You should ideally schedule your cleanings with a dentist at least every six months. If you’re experiencing issues with the gums, such as bleeding, or have existing gum disease, then you may need to schedule these appointments sooner.
Pay Attention to Diet
Just like your teeth are more susceptible to cavities when you consume copious amounts of sugar, your gums can be subject to disease with dietary changes. Keep the amount of sugar you consume to a minimum. This includes not only dessert foods like cake and candy, but it also means limiting the number of sodas and high-sugar fruit juices that you may drink. You should also consider adding more fibre to your diet.
Contact Your Local Dentist
When you’re ready to start taking control of your oral health, make an appointment with your local dentist. East Kildonan Dental Group in Winnipeg would love to help you get the smile you’ve always dreamed of having. Give us a call today to book an appointment for your next cleaning!