Studies show that your gum health is directly related to your overall health. Therefore, it would be helpful to make efforts to achieve and maintain optimal gum health for your overall well-being. You can seek expert periodontal care at Pro Dental Care, a South Elgin, IL, dentist with highly experienced providers who understand your unique needs. Additionally, you can practice several self-care practices which improve your gums strength and your overall oral health. Here are some of the proven ways you can maintain healthy gums.
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How to Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is a common oral health care practice you have learned since childhood. But to maintain a healthy gum, it is not just brushing your teeth that counts, but doing it right. Ensure that you brush your teeth for about two minutes twice a day. Also, be sure you are using the correct type of toothbrush and paste. You can consult your dentist for advice. Generally, it is advisable to use a soft or medium bristle brush and a fluoride paste. To keep time, you can set a timer or listen to soothing music.
Scrub your teeth gently while holding the brush like a pencil and make circular and vertical strokes. Be sure to brush the roof of your mouth and the tongue as well. Please do not use a toothbrush for too long. You can replace it at least every two to three months or earlier when the bristles are worn.
Flossing Your Teeth
Flossing is not an uncommon practice. But still, you have to do it right to maintain a healthy gum. It is an effective way of removing particles and debris between your teeth, which can be missed during brushing. The particles can irritate your gums if left there, causing complications to your gums. When flossing, ensure that the floss forms a C-shape around the tooth and do at least four vertical movements. But do not push too far into your gums to avoid irritating them, it will extract any bacteria from your gums, avoid infections and other complications.
Using Antibacterial Mouthwash
It would help if you cleaned the entire mouth to prevent infections leading to unhealthy gums. That is why it is necessary to use an antibacterial mouthwash to clean your whole mouth after brushing and flossing your teeth. You can consult your dentist to learn the most suitable mouthwash option for you. Use the mouthwash several times a week for optimal results. However, it would help to avoid any alcoholic mouthwash as it can end up doing more harm to your gum health than good.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated has more benefits to your overall health. It ensures that you have adequate saliva for your gums, which is critical in keeping the bacteria in balance and your mouth healthy. It is advisable to drink about 4-8oz of water every hour, mainly when your mouth is dry, or you feel thirsty.
Check-in With Your Dentist Regularly
Dentists or oral hygienists are trained to detect problems in your gums. They can identify issues as early as possible to offer personalized suggestions to help you maintain healthy gums. This means they have to regularly evaluate your oral health, which is why you have to visit them every 3-8 months. Besides, it is good to seek professional cleaning as your dentist can reach the hard-to-reach places to remove any particles or debris which can cause gum complications.
Learn how you can maintain healthy gums by reaching out to Pro Dental Care. The expert dentists offer periodontal dentistry to help you achieve your goals. Besides, you can consult the providers on self-help tips to improve the health of your gums.