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Gums are an important part of our oral health, as they help support and protect our teeth. But just like our teeth, gums can be prone to problems like inflammation, infection, and even gum disease if they're not properly cared for.
So how can your patients keep their gums healthy and strong? In this article, we'll go over 10 dental care tips to help maintain great gums.
1. Brush your teeth twice a day - along with your tongue!
Brushing your teeth twice a day is an essential part of maintaining healthy gums. By removing plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth and gums, brushing helps prevent gum disease and other oral health problems. Brush for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush . Also, don’t forget to brush your tongue. This removes remaining bacteria and freshens your breath, which can be beneficial for your gums. Use a tongue scraper, the textured surface of the backside of your toothbrush or a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your tongue.
2. Floss daily.
Flossing is another important part of maintaining healthy gums. By removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, flossing helps prevent gum disease and other oral health problems. Encourage your patients to floss at least once a day, using a gentle back and forth motion and taking care to floss between all of their teeth. You may also use devices like water flossers as it requires less manual dexterity.
3. Use mouthwash.
Mouthwashes may help kill bacteria and freshen your breath, which can be beneficial for your gums. Use mouthwash as part of your oral hygiene routine, either in addition to or instead of flossing. For maximum effect, rinse for a minimum of 30 seconds. If you have an existing gum disease, the dentist may prescribe specialised mouthwashes like peroxide or gum paints. Please be careful to not over use these and stick to the time duration prescribed by your dentist.
4. Avoid tobacco.
Tobacco use can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Encourage your patients to avoid tobacco products, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes, to help protect their gums and overall oral health.
5. Eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet can help support healthy gums and teeth. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and to limit their consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
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