Keeping your mouth healthy goes beyond ensuring your teeth are white and cavity-free; it includes taking care of your gums. Plaque buildup along and under the gumline can lead to bacteria that cause tooth decay and gingivitis.

Gum disease is often painless, and most people do not realize they have problems until the later stages. Over time, the gums become red, swollen, tender, and inflamed. It is helpful to learn ways to prevent gum disease.

Flossing Daily

Good oral hygiene includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. Most people skip flossing, which can easily lead to gum disease. Flossing helps remove debris and plaque that a toothbrush cannot reach. You can choose to floss in the morning or evening, but you should do it daily.

Proper Brushing

Brushing at least two times a day can help prevent gum disease. It is not enough to brush your teeth; you need to do it properly using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush for at least two minutes to remove all plaque and food particles trapped between the gums and teeth.

Make sure you brush the tongue, as it can harbor bacteria. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months. Consider investing in an electric toothbrush.

Do Not Smoke

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you have a high chance of developing gum disease. Smoking causes bad breath and can weaken the immune system, making it hard to fight gum infections. Using tobacco products will make it harder for damaged gums to heal. To protect your gum health, you need to quit smoking.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

It’s best to go beyond brand, color, and flavor when shopping for toothpaste. Choose products with fluoride and the ADA acceptance seal to keep your gums healthy. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste prevents gum disease and will help keep the teeth’s enamel strong.

Therapeutic Mouthwash

Including mouthwash in your daily oral hygiene routine can help prevent gum disease. Choose a therapeutic mouthwash that can help reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis. A mouthwash containing fluoride reduces the speed at which tartar can develop. Rinsing your mouth after meals will remove debris and mouth particles that can lead to the growth of bacteria.

Regular Dental Cleaning

The daily hygiene routine is good but may not be adequate, especially if you have tartar. It is a good idea to visit the dentist for professional cleaning regularly. The dentist at Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology can spot signs of gum diseases before they become serious. Dental cleaning helps remove any plaque missed during daily brushing and flossing.

Preventing gum disease is easier and less costly than trying to treat it. Other things you can do to keep your gums healthy include eating a healthy diet and chewing sugar-free gum. Schedule regular dental exams to protect your oral health. The dentist will help identify and treat the early symptoms of gum disease.

For more ways to prevent gum disease, visit Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology at our Brooklyn, New York office. Call (646) 863-4810 to schedule an appointment today.