How Can I Keep My Gums Healthy?

Maintaining a healthy smile isn’t just about keeping your teeth in good shape. It’s also about making sure your gums remain pink, taut, and free of harmful bacteria that can attack and lead to gingivitis or periodontitis. This soft tissue located around your teeth can easily become inflamed and infected if left untreated, so what can you do at home to prevent these problems? A local dentist in Richardson shares 6 helpful tips that are guaranteed to give you the healthy gums you desire.

The Art of Flossing

Considered to be the most common tip you’ll receive when it comes to maintaining healthy gums, flossing is proven effective at removing bacteria and food particles from between your teeth. It is recommended that you do this at least once a day, preferably before bed.

Make Time to See Your Dentist

Your dentist in Richardson recommends that you have a regular dental checkup and cleaning every six months to prevent plaque and tartar accumulations from causing tooth decay or gum disease. During these visits, a member of your dental team will remove this build-up, leaving your teeth and soft oral tissues feeling clean. If you are showing early signs of gingivitis, these cleanings can help to reverse the symptoms and prevent escalating problems.

Kick the Habit

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you should find a way to kick the habit if you want to avoid worsening gum issues. Because smoking weakens your immune system, it is often tied to gum disease because of your body’s inability to fight off infection. When attempting to undergo periodontal therapy, smoking can also make it more difficult for your soft tissues to heal. If you need help finding a way to quit, look for cessation resources or support groups in your area.

Brush Twice Daily for Two Minutes

While brushing is designed to keep the front and back of your teeth free of plaque, the toothpaste you use and soft bristles of your toothbrush are capable of removing small bits of bacteria from between your teeth, especially after eating. This is why you should brush after every meal or at least twice a day. When you do, make sure you are brushing for a full two minutes, and don’t forget to scrub your tongue as well.

Make Sure You’re Using Fluoride Toothpaste

When choosing the right toothpaste to protect your teeth and gums, make sure you not only look for a product designed to combat gingivitis but also contains fluoride. This natural mineral strengthens tooth enamel and protects against decay, which can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums.

Choose the Right Mouthwash

After brushing and flossing, you’ll need to remember to use mouthwash to rinse away debris left behind. Trying to decide on the right product to you isn’t always easy, so make sure you look for a therapeutic mouthwash that reduces plaque and tartar and prevents gingivitis.

As you search for reliable products at your local store, make sure to look for the ADA seal. This ensures the toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash you are using are deemed safe and effective.

A healthy smile is attainable when using the right items and following your dentists’ instructions. In doing so, you will enjoy healthier, happier gums for a lifetime.

About the Practice
At McDougal and Richards Dentistry, our team of expert dentists and staff want to help every patient who walks through our doors achieve happier, healthier smiles. This is why when patients arrive with early or advanced stages of gum disease, we offer periodontal therapy to stop the progression in its tracks. To learn more about how we can help you, contact us at (972) 231-5376.