If gum disease is left untreated for too long, it can have severe consequences, such as extensive tooth loss and an increased risk of heart problems. Luckily, it is a preventable issue; you can keep your risk of developing gum disease to a minimum simply by following the right steps. Here are 5 tips that can go a long way toward helping you keep your gums in excellent health.
1. Brush Your Teeth Correctly
Brushing your teeth at least two times a day is essential for protecting your smile from gum disease as well as cavities. Of course, to get the most out of brushing, you need to make sure that you’re doing it the correct way. When brushing, remember to pay close attention to your gumline, and hold the brush at a 45-degree angle. This will help ensure that you’re able to remove the plaque that has built up near the gums.
2. Floss Every Day
Food and plaque can easily accumulate in the spaces between the teeth, which can’t be easily cleaned with a toothbrush. Failing to clean these areas can easily lead to gum disease. As such, if flossing isn’t already a daily habit for you, you should turn it into one as soon as possible. In the event that you have trouble remembering to floss, try setting a reminder on your phone; it can also help to leave the dental floss on top of your toothpaste so that you’re sure to see it the next time you brush your teeth.
3. Stay Away From Tobacco Products
As you’re likely aware, smoking can significantly increase your risk for gum disease. One of the side effects of tobacco is that it can weaken your immune system. This makes it harder for your body to fight off infections of any kind – and that includes infections of the gums. If you want to keep gum disease at bay, it’s best to avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products altogether.
4. Start Using Mouthwash
While mouthwash can’t replace brushing or flossing in your oral hygiene routine, it can still help reduce the presence of plaque in your mouth and ultimately lower your risk of gum disease. There are plenty of types of therapeutic mouthwash that can be bought over the counter. Remember to make sure that the mouthwash you get has been approved by the ADA so that you know that it’s a safe, effective product.
5. Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
If the plaque on your teeth and gums hardens into tartar, you won’t be able to get rid of it on your own. As such, you should visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning so that they can get rid of the tartar in your mouth before it can lead to gum disease. They can also examine your gums to see if there are any concerning symptoms; detecting gum disease early can often help you avoid more severe issues later on.
About the Practice
Here at Silver Creek Dentistry in Ripon, our dentists are fully committed to providing high-quality care, and we strive to bring our patients unparalleled service whenever they visit us. In addition to deep cleanings, we also offer the Perio Protect Method as a way to treat gum disease. If you would like to schedule a consultation with our team, visit our website or call (920) 748-7200.