When you think about taking care of your smile you probably are thinking mostly about your teeth. However, your oral health isn’t simply about how aligned and white your smile is. It is also about your gum tissue. Even if you are completely free of cavities, this doesn’t always mean that your gums are in great shape. Often time, people who have gum disease don’t even know it! Continue reading to learn more from your dentist in Marion about ways you can keep this important part of your smile healthy.
Brush Twice Daily
After each meal, or at least twice a day, you should take time to brush your teeth. Remember to clean your tongue as well because it can also harbor harmful bacteria. Choose a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Electric toothbrushes are often more effective at reducing gingivitis as compared to a manual toothbrush.
Floss Every Day
Even if you are diligent about brushing, there are certain areas in your mouth where your brush won’t be able to reach. When you take time to floss, you can clean between the teeth and beneath the gumline to rid these areas of food debris and harmful bacteria.
See Your Dentist
When you go in for your regular cleaning and checkup, your dentist looks for early signs of gum disease so they can be treated before they become more serious. If periodontal disease progresses, it can lead to all sorts of problems, including tooth loss. This is why early detection is so important. Professional cleanings are the only way to properly remove tartar. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits can help to reverse gingivitis.
Use Mouthwash
Therapeutic mouthwashes are usually available over the counter and can help to reduce plaque, gingivitis, and the speed that tartar develops. It also helps to wash away food debris from your mouth. This is not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing, but it can make a great addition to your oral hygiene regimen.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking cigarettes is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease and is harmful for pretty much every part of your body. Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it more difficult for your body to fight off infections in the mouth. It also makes it more difficult for your gums to heal once they have become damaged.
When taking care of your smile, you can’t forget about your gums! By taking these steps, you can maintain healthy gum tissue and prevent periodontal disease from developing in the future.
About the Author
Dr. James Leon is a well experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades. He earned his doctorate at Western Virginia University and has taken hundreds of hours of continuing education from many of the top programs in the country in order to expand his knowledge in the field. For more information on keeping your gums healthy or to schedule an appointment at Dr. Leon’s office in Marion, visit his website or call (740) 725-8000.