Did you know that gum health is just as important as tooth health? It’s true! As the supporting structure for your teeth, gums have the important jobs of keeping your teeth in place and protecting them from harmful bacteria. Neglecting your gums could lead to tooth loss, decay and other health problems.
Make sure your gums stay healthy by following these simple tips.
Floss daily. Often neglected, with only 30% of Americans saying they floss daily, flossing is vitally important to the health of your gums and teeth. By flossing daily, you can prevent bleeding and swollen gums and remove food particles before they cause bacterial buildup.
Rinse the right way. Don’t rinse with water right after brushing with fluoride toothpaste. Let the fluoride settle and do its job in strengthening your teeth against plaque and acid. When it comes to eating, rinsing with water is recommended. The water rinse will aid in removing food and bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
Practice good brushing. Everyone thinks they know how to brush their teeth. But most mornings and evenings, it’s treated as a thoughtless routine to cross off the checklist. Boost the health of your teeth and gums by improving little practices such as brushing at a 45-degree angle, using short strokes and pressing gently.
Consume the right food. When grocery shopping, don’t just think of your taste buds -think of your teeth. Choosing high fiber fruits and vegetables will help clean the mouth while black and green teas reduce bacteria. When at the checkout counter, grab some sugar-free gum to boost salvia production.
Visit the dentist regularly. If your gums appear red and swollen, bleed easily or your teeth feel loose in your mouth, call Jackson Dental to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. All of the above are signs of gum disease, but the good news is gum disease can be reversed if caught early! Only the dentist can remove tartar buildup on teeth, so it’s important to get your teeth professionally cleaned regularly.
If better gum and oral health is on your 2022 to-do list, give Jackson Dental a call at 573-243-5200. We offer full dental services for the entire family and are always accepting new patients!