A dazzling smile can brighten anyone's day and boost self-confidence. Therefore, look after the health of your teeth and gums to avoid periodontitis or the formation of unsightly stains.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Keeping Your Gums Healthy
Step 1. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day
It is the first rule of taking care of your teeth. Make sure you wash them every day, morning and evening, using a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Schedule a timer for two minutes or listen to a short piece of music to time your dental cleaning.
- Don't brush them too hard. Hold the toothbrush as if it were a pencil and use it in light circular motions.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle along the edge of the gum line.
- Make sure you brush your tongue and roof of the mouth as well.
- Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months.
Step 2. Floss once a day
The most effective way to remove food and plaque between the teeth, where it can irritate the gums if not removed, is to use dental floss. Make sure you pass it to the sides of each tooth.
- The floss should form a "C" around the tooth.
- Don't push it too hard on your gums. Stop along the gumline, but don't go further.
Step 3. Use antibacterial mouthwash to clean your entire mouth
Teeth make up only 25% of the oral cavity, so it is necessary to keep it completely clean to prevent infections that can compromise the health of the gums. Use an antibacterial mouthwash a few times a week, but avoid those that contain alcohol, as they risk doing more harm than good.
Step 4. Choose snacks that promote gum health
Foods that contain sugars, chewing gum and fizzy drinks contribute to the proliferation of bacteria that are harmful to the health of the mouth, which can cause gum disease. Additionally, French fries, crackers, and nuts can get stuck in your teeth and there is a risk that residues will be harmful if not removed as soon as possible. Since most people don't brush their teeth after snacking, they can stay between their teeth for several hours.
- Foods rich in calcium, such as milk, are ideal for dental health.
- Vegetables, hummus, and fresh fruit are all healthy alternatives for oral health.
- If you eat sugary foods, rinse your mouth when you can't brush your teeth.
Step 5. Stay hydrated
Saliva is essential to keep the mouth healthy and its bacterial flora in balance. Drink 120-240ml of water every hour, especially when you feel thirsty or dry mouth.
Step 6. Go to the dentist every 6-8 months
Your dentist and oral hygienist are professionals who specialize in detecting gum problems and can give you personalized advice to help keep them healthy. Make sure you make an appointment frequently, even if you don't think you have any problems.
Part 2 of 2: Preventing Gum Disease
Step 1. Assess if you are at risk for gum disease
There are several risk factors associated with this type of disease that may be beyond your control. If you have any of the following, consult your dentist about how you can prevent gum disease from occurring:
- Diabetes
- Cases in the family of people who have suffered from gum disease
- Hormonal changes in women and girls
- Taking medications that involve dry mouth
- Autoimmune diseases, such as cancer or AIDS
- Poor oral hygiene
Step 2. Avoid smoking
Worldwide, smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, which can reduce the effectiveness of treatments. The easiest way to avoid gum disease is to quit smoking.
Step 3. Get your teeth cleaned twice a year
Almost all gum disease can be prevented by removing plaque from the teeth. In these cases, the dentist or oral hygienist is the person best equipped to clean the teeth. Therefore, try to get visited periodically.
Step 4. Learn about the symptoms of gum disease
If you neglect your oral health, gum disease can damage the tissues and cartilages in the mouth and eventually lead to tooth decay. If you chronically experience any of the following symptoms, make a dentist appointment right away:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding or sensitive gums
- Chewing accompanied by pain
- Loss of teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Gingival recession (teeth appear "longer")
Step 5. See your dentist before gum disease progresses
Gingivitis is a dental disease that occurs when the gums become inflamed or swollen. In itself it is not particularly dangerous. However, if not treated in time, it can develop into periodontitis, which leads to the detachment of the gums from the teeth, favoring the entry of bacteria that damage the health of the teeth. If your gums do not regain strength, even though you regularly brush and floss your teeth, you may need to take some antibiotics or undergo surgery to prevent more serious illnesses.
