(215) 677-2401
Brushing your teeth twice daily is an effective way to strengthen them, but taking care of your gums is just as important. These soft tissues hold your smile in place, so giving them the love they need can help you prevent more oral health issues. If you aren’t sure how to get started, then here are five tips that can support your gum health.
Floss Once Every Day
Before you brush your teeth, you should floss. This will clean out any bacteria and food debris in places your toothbrush can’t reach. That way, when you scrub your grin, you wash them all away. Better yet, this can also reduce your risk of gum disease and cavities. So, by doing it once before bedtime, you can set yourself up for success.
Rinse with Antibacterial Mouthwash
Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash at the end of your oral hygiene routine is a great way to give yourself another layer of protection. This can clear anything you might’ve missed; that way, they don’t linger and cause problems. Just be sure you grab one that doesn’t have alcohol, as products with it can dry your mouth.
Eat Smile-Friendly Foods
A simple way to support your oral and gum health is by eating the right foods. Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy are packed with nutrients for a healthy body and strong immune system. This also goes for limiting sugary and acidic options. That way, you don’t feed the plaque in your mouth and cause it to build up.
Avoid Using Tobacco Products
If you smoke or chew tobacco, it can affect your smile over time. It weakens your immune system and irritates the soft tissues in your mouth. You increase your risk of gum disease and can develop dry mouth. Without adequate saliva production, you won’t be able to wash away bacteria as easily. Quitting these habits can go a long way in protecting your grin, so consider picking up other hobbies, like exercising.
Have Routine Visits with Your Dentist
In the end, don’t forget to visit your dentist for semi-annual checkups and cleanings. Your provider can watch for early warning signs of infection and take steps against them. That way, any problems get handled while they are minor, and you keep your smile in great shape no matter what.
About the Practice
Want to protect your oral health? Our team at Dentex Dental of Philadelphia is dedicated to helping patients avoid dental problems by offering a wide range of services, like gum disease treatment. Led by compassionate dentists, we can catch them right away and use state-of-the-art technology to effectively treat them. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 215-677-3904.