No one relishes the idea of getting soggy gums that are riddled with sores and lead to tooth decay or loss. But while many people try to give some attention to their teeth, many do not take adequate precautions to preserve gum health. Many of the things we do for the teeth may also benefit our gums, but here are a few tips that can enhance gum care and prevent or delay the formation of gum disease, which has been linked to heart problems and other generalized health deterioration:
1. Brush your gums. Use a soft bristle toothbrush as part of your daily oral care to gently massage the gums. Make small circles where each tooth is embedded in the gum to stimulate gum circulation and remove bacteria from those areas. Do this at the base of every tooth and in gaps where teeth are missing. Then lightly brush the top and bottom gums, inside and out, with your regular fluoride toothpaste.
2. Use a fluoride rinse. You won’t need this if your drinking water already contains fluoride, but if not, your dentist may recommend a daily one-minute post-brushing rinse with a commercial product designed for this purpose. The rinse will help to remove plaque from both teeth and gums and prevent the buildup of bacteria that can lead to damage and decay over time.
3. Floss daily. Flossing removes food particles from between and around your teeth, including debris that has gotten wedged into the gum. You may not be able to see these particles, but flossing can expose and get rid of them, reducing gum inflammation and eventual infection. Use an eighteen-inch piece of dental floss, with the ends wrapped around each forefinger and grasped by the thumbs. Push it up and down between teeth, moving along the length of the floss for a clean section each time you clean another tooth.
4. Rinse with mouthwash. Ask your dentist to recommend a safe brand. Some with high alcohol content can be irritating to the mouth, and some experts claim it may lead to oral cancer. A certain amount of astringent or antibacterial ingredients will kill germs that breed bacteria in the mouth, which left unchecked, can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease.
5. Don’t smoke or drink heavily. Smokers and drinkers tend to have higher rates of gum disease and oral cancer. Don’t start these habits if you haven’t already, and try to cut back or quit altogether if possible. In addition to dental disease, drinking and smoking can make your teeth turn yellow and dry your lips and tongue. Chew sugarless gum instead.
Taking a few preventive steps can reduce your chances of getting gum disease and help you keep your teeth well into old age. Ask your doctor for a personalized plan of oral care that can help you hold onto your teeth and preserve healthy gums. Remember, eating delicious meals or tasty snacks with artificial dentures or a sore mouth is no fun!
