5 Practical Ways to Improve Your Gum Health

Nearly 50% of Americans (or about one in four adults 30 and older) have gum disease. Although common, without treatment, gum disease increases your risk of more severe oral health problems, such as gum recession and bone loss.

At SolidSMILES Dental in Lewisville, Texas, emergency dentist Hiral Patel, DDS, provides complete care for gum disease. However, preventive measures can keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of problems. Here, we explore five practical ways to improve your gum health. 

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is inflammation and/or infection of the soft tissues supporting your teeth. It occurs when plaque — a combination of food particles, saliva, and bacteria — collects and hardens on your teeth and beneath your gum line.

Mild gum disease (gingivitis) typically improves with good oral hygiene and preventive care, but if the infection progresses and becomes severe (periodontitis), it can damage your gum tissue and increase the risk of tooth loss.

5 practical ways to keep your gums healthy

The good news is keeping your gums healthy is possible. Here are five practical ways to get started.

1. Brush your teeth twice daily

The easiest way to prevent plaque build-up is to brush your teeth twice daily: once in the morning and once at night. For optimal results, brush for at least two minutes, gently scrubbing the front, back, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. 

You can increase the efficacy with an electric toothbrush. Research shows powered toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque than manual ones.

2. Floss regularly

Flossing your teeth can be time-consuming and somewhat tedious, but it’s worth the investment. Doing so removes food particles and bacteria from the hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth, and it massages your gums. Furthermore, one study found that people who flossed at least once weekly were 17% less likely to have gum disease.

3. Visit your dentist for routine cleanings

Daily brushing and flossing are important, but you must also schedule routine oral exams and teeth cleanings. Plaque and bacteria collect between your teeth and beneath your gums even if you practice meticulous oral hygiene. 

Routine cleanings prevent this buildup from worsening and keep your mouth healthy. They also allow us to perform oral X-rays to check for gum disease-related problems like bone loss.

4. Always brush with fluoride toothpaste

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens bones and helps reduce tooth decay. Because of this ability, using a toothpaste that contains fluoride is crucial. Fluoride helps keep your teeth strong and cavity-free and also prevents gum disease. 

One study concluded that people who brushed with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for three weeks experienced significantly less plaque, gum inflammation, and bleeding.

5. Quit smoking

You know that smoking is bad for your lungs and health, in general, but it also takes a toll on your gums. In fact, smoking increases the risk of gum disease and makes it harder to treat. 

Thankfully, the damage isn’t permanent. A study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that among former smokers, a longer time quitting smoking was associated with a reduced likelihood of periodontitis.

Take the first step toward improved gum health 

Gum disease is a common problem, but healthy lifestyle changes and good oral hygiene can reduce your risk. If you’re concerned about your risk of gum disease, call SolidSMILES Dental today for a periodontal treatment appointment or book your visit online.