
Like many patients, you may dream of having white teeth that are perfectly symmetrical and completely healthy. But what if they were framed by inflamed, red, and bleeding gums? That wouldn’t look or feel great! The best way to keep your teeth and your gums healthy is by taking care of both. If you aren’t sure where to start, or why it’s important, keep reading to learn why you should take care of your gums and a few healthy habits to incorporate into your daily routine.
Why Taking Care of Your Gums Is Crucial
Simply put, an infection in your gums doesn’t just take a toll on your oral health; it takes a toll on your overall health. In fact, recent research suggests that severe gum disease might be linked to an increased risk of heart disease and pneumonia. Plus, if left alone to progress, it can lead to considerable tooth loss, which makes it difficult to eat crisp fruits, raw vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.
6 Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy
Fortunately, keeping your gums healthy doesn’t require any special oral hygiene products or cumbersome routines. Simply:
- Floss at least once a day
- Rinse with an anti-microbial mouthwash each night
- Brush your teeth for two full minutes every morning and evening
- Replace your toothbrush every quarter
- Quit bad habits, like smoking
- Keep sugary snacks to a minimum
Remember, Routine Dental Visits Are Important Too!
Simply put, an oral hygiene regimen is incomplete without routine dental checkups and cleanings. Why? To start, only the tools your dentist has at their office can effectively remove built-up plaque and tartar. Additionally, common dental problems, including gum disease, can develop and progress with little-to-no symptoms. The best way to detect and treat issues like these in the early stages is by visiting your dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral exam.
My Gums Are Bleeding When I Floss – What Should I Do?
If your gums are bleeding when you floss, you might be tempted to take the “wait and see” approach, especially if you aren’t in pain or experiencing persistent sensitivity. However, there’s a possibility that an infection is the culprit. If that’s the case, the longer you wait, the more time the infection has to spread. So, contact your dentist right away!
About the Practice
Our top-rated team at Sommers Family Dentistry shares a passion for helping our patients smile. That starts from the very first phone call and extends to when it comes time to leave our office. We also offer appointments as early as 7 AM, we welcome CareCredit to ensure handling the financial side of your care isn’t stressful, and we provide a wide range of treatments in-house so you turn to the same professionals you know and trust time and time again. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, then visit our website or call (419) 668-3606.