Teeth get the most attention in conversations about oral health. And while teeth are one of the most important components for a healthy oral cavity, they aren’t the only one. Your gums are extremely important, and they can often get missed if you don’t thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. Improper cleaning of the gums can lead to various conditions, including gingivitis and gum disease.
So how can you make sure your gums are healthy and clean? It’s easy! All you have to do is maintain proper dental hygiene that doesn’t involve anything extra that you wouldn’t do to take care of your teeth.
Brush Twice A Day
Daily habits as simple as brushing your teeth and gums twice a day can have a significant impact on keeping your mouth free of plaque and harmful bacteria. Brush all surfaces of the gums, especially the hard-to-reach places that get missed in quick brushes. Brushing doesn’t take long, so take the time twice a day to scrub all surfaces to maintain the best dental health possible.
Floss
Flossing helps remove food and plaque that gets stuck in places that a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing can help dislodge food particles that are stuck in the gums, reducing the possibility of inflammation and infection. There’s no recommended time for flossing, as long as you do it once a day! It can in the morning, at night, after meals — whatever you prefer!
Use Mouthwash
Just like dental floss, mouthwash can also get in the spaces that toothbrushes can’t. According to the American Dental Association, mouthwash can reduce plaque, as well as prevent and reduce gingivitis. It’s important to recognize that not all mouthwashes are created equal. You’ll want to use a therapeutic mouthwash, as therapeutic mouthwashes use active ingredients that kill bacteria, reduce plaque, gingivitis, cavities and bad breath. Cosmetic mouthwashes only aim to prevent bad breath, so avoid those in favor of a therapeutic variety.
Regular Dental Visits
Even if your brush you teeth twice a day and floss daily, there is no substitute for getting professional cleanings and examinations from a dental professional. Dentists not only give your gums a thorough cleaning; they also can recognize early symptoms of gingivitis and gum disease and offer effective treatments for reducing the conditions.
The Final Word
Don’t risk gum inflammation or disease by skipping over your gums when you brush your teeth. Make sure your gums get just as much attention as your pearly whites! Be sure to brush twice a day, floss daily, use mouthwash and schedule regular dentist appointments to make sure your gums are in optimal health!
