National Gum Disease Awareness Month - How You Can Keep Your Gums Vibrant and Healthy

Almost half of all adults have some form of gum disease, with the primary cause of this condition being poor or inadequate dental hygiene. Gum disease can cause gum recession and even tooth loss which is why it is very important to take preventive measures and care for your gums properly at home. 

While early gum disease (gingivitis) can be treated if identified early, severe gum disease is irreversible. So, how can you keep your gums vibrant and healthy? Keep reading to find out.

Brush Your Teeth Properly

If you want to maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a manual or electric toothbrush and make sure you clean all the tooth surfaces properly. Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at cleaning your teeth and are also softer on your gums. 

Floss, Floss, Floss

Just like brushing, flossing is also an important part of your oral health care routine. If you properly floss daily, you can remove the accumulated plaque and tartar between your teeth that you cannot remove with brushing.

Drink Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, drinking at least eight glasses of water per day. Drinking water helps remove food particles from the surfaces of the teeth and gums and also increases saliva production to strengthen your teeth and protect your gums.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Tooth decay is caused by acids that are produced by the bacteria in your mouth. Fluoride can help slow down acid production, thereby preventing tooth decay. Fluoride also helps strengthen your tooth enamel.

Quit Using Tobacco 

Tobacco use increases plaque and tartar accumulation, which can result in gum disease and cavities. Gum disease is twice as common among smokers compared to nonsmokers. Smoking also impairs the healing process of damaged gums. 

At All Care Dentistry, we are on a mission to raise awareness about gum disease in addition to offering advanced gum disease treatments and procedures. For more details or to schedule an appointment with Dr. David Powell, DDS, call (801) 266-1414, book on our website, or visit us at 6065 S Fashion Blvd # 275, Murray, Salt Lake City, UT 84107.