Keeping your gums healthy isn’t shouted about as much as keeping your teeth healthy. However, its importance can’t be overstated! Your gums are part of the foundations to a healthy, happy smile. After all, they do protect the root of your teeth and the bones of your jaw.
Not taking care of your gums can cause some health issues. This includes halitosis (bad breath), which happens when bacteria builds up and releases foul smelling toxins.
Neglecting your gums can also lead to gum disease or Gingivitis. This can cause your gums to swell up, redden, and become prone to bleeding. Signs that you have gum disease also include having a constant bad taste in your mouth and having bad breath.
If left without treatment, this can develop into periodontitis, when the gums begin to detach themselves from the teeth. This can lead to damage on your gums, jaw bones, and even cause tooth loss.
All these things are preventable if you follow these simple tips:
How can I keep my gums healthy?
- Visit your dentist at least once a year.
To maintain good oral health, it is crucial you stay up to date with your dental check ups. Your dentist will be able to spot, and sort out common hygiene issues. They will also be able to refer you to a hygienist who can clean and scale your teeth and gums.
If you need any extra advice on keeping on top of your oral hygiene, your dentist will be able to suggest things to you.
- Use good brushing techniques.
Brushing your teeth isn’t effective if you aren’t doing it correctly. You need to check your technique. Brushing your teeth too hard, or for too long can actually damage your gums. Include brushing along your gum lines gently as part of your two minute routine.
- Floss your teeth everyday.
Flossing can help by removing food and plaque from between your teeth and on the gum line which a toothbrush cannot reach. If this is left here, it can be a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially causing gum disease.
- Think about your diet.
What you consume can have a huge impact on your oral health. It’s best to eat sugary snacks and drinks in moderation as they play a big part in tooth decay and gum disease.
- Quit smoking.
This just adds to the list of many reasons why you should quit smoking. Since it also weakens your immune system, it makes it harder for your gums to fight away any infections. Smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal up once they have been damaged
Our hygienist has provided an online demonstration for you to watch in a video which you can view on our Youtube channel in Welsh here or in English here. If you want any more advice, or think you need to have your oral health reviews then please feel free to contact us.
