Healthy gums are crucial for your general health. They are the foundation of your teeth and help keep your smile bright and healthy. Unfortunately, most people neglect their gum health. This leads to gum disease, which can cause tooth loss and other severe health problems. Several tips can help keep your gums healthy. Continue reading to learn them.

Brush Your Teeth and Gums Twice a Day

You create a foundation for good oral health by brushing your teeth and gums twice daily. Ensure you do so for at least two minutes. Work on your gumline with a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid causing damage. Brush your teeth with such a toothbrush while applying gentle pressure. Use circular motions to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums.

Floss Everyday

Flossing your teeth is as crucial as brushing them. It helps remove food particles and plaque in areas your toothbrush cannot reach. It also stimulates your gums and removes bacteria that cause gum disease. Ensure you floss daily, preferably before bedtime. Use back-and-forth motions to clean between your teeth and under your gumline.

Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash is effective in keeping gums healthy. It helps kill bacteria and freshens breath. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash containing fluoride to help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. 

Use your mouthwash to rinse your mouth for at least 30 seconds after you brush and floss your teeth. Do not rinse your mouth with water using mouthwash. Doing so will wash away the fluoride.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Your general health is reliant on eating healthy. It also helps with your gum health. Choose meals with high fiber and low in sugar, like fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. Such foods can help clean your gums and teeth. They also provide the essential nutrients to keep your gums healthy. Avoid starchy and sugary foods; these promote bacteria growth in your mouth.

Quit Smoking

One of the greatest risk factors for gum disease is smoking. It also stains teeth and causes bad breath. Quit if you are a smoker. You can seek help if you have trouble quitting. Your dentist can give you resources and support to help you quit smoking.

Manage Stress

Your oral health can get impacted by stress. It can cause you to grind your teeth or clench your jaw, damaging your teeth and gums. Find ways to keep your stress levels down by exercising regularly, spending time with friends and family, and practicing meditation. Talk to your dentist if you start grinding or clenching your jaw. They may give you a mouth guard to protect your teeth and gums.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

You can keep your gums healthy by visiting your dentist regularly. Your specialist can help you identify the early signs of gum disease. They will also give you treatment before it becomes severe. 

Your dentist can also clean your teeth professionally. They will remove plaque and tartar that you cannot remove with flossing or brushing alone. See your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups.

For more about keeping gums healthy, visit Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry at our office in Falls Church, Virginia. Call (703) 534-6226 to book an appointment today.