We all worry about our pearly whites, but what about keeping your gums healthy? You can do both with these helpful tips that keep teeth and gums healthy and disease-free.
Enjoy crunchy foods.
It turns out there was a grain of truth to that “apple a day” saying. Crunchy foods are a great way to remove plaque from teeth and around the gum line. As you sink your teeth into that apple, it takes away any of those annoying substances that stick to the teeth and can cause problems.
Floss, floss, floss.
Flossing is an incredibly effective way to keep gums healthy. Regular flossing removes particles from around the teeth, preventing irritated gums and reducing plaque and tartar build-up. It doesn’t matter if you floss before or after you brush; it’s more important that you floss regularly.
Head to the dentist.
Regular dental cleanings are one of the best ways to keep teeth and gums healthy. A good deep clean in the dentist chair removes hard-to-reach plaque and tartar. Your dentist can also keep an eye out for any gum and teeth issues, and give you tips on how to ensure your mouth is healthy.
Brush regularly.
Bright and shiny teeth are only half of a healthy mouth! Healthy gums are an important part of preventing tooth loss and keeping harmful bacteria at bay. A good brushing with a soft-bristled brush and soft circular strokes is the best way to protect both your teeth and gums. Ideally, you should brush twice a day for 2 minutes each time. Brushes should also be replaced every 3-4 months so the bristles are not worn and can do the best job.
Enjoy a glass of milk (and water).
Milk is a major source of calcium which strengthens teeth and enamel. Water washes away harmful bacteria and prevents dry mouth which can cause future problems. Adding both drinks to your routine can keep your teeth and gums healthy (and it’s easy to do!). If you have any issues with milk, you can substitute other calcium-rich foods for milk, such as yogurt and tofu.
Add fluoride to your routine.
Think of fluoride as the ultimate protector. Flouride strengthens tooth enamel and makes teeth less susceptible to decay. The good news is that there are a lot of fluoridated products on the market, such as mouthwash, toothpaste, and fluoridated water. Your dentist may also offer fluoride treatment.
Stay tobacco-free.
Tobacco products can contribute to a host of health problems, including unhealthy gums. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, you can use one of these tips for quitting smoking or find a way to remove tobacco from your daily routine.
