Are you looking to improve your health this year? If so, don’t make the mistake of overlooking your gums! Periodontitis (or gum disease) is a common illness that affects around half of adults over the age of 30, according to the American Dental Association. If left unchecked, this disease can lead to a number of health issues including heart disease, respiratory illness, stroke, and even complications with pregnancy. Therefore, be sure to take the following important steps to improve your gum health in 2019.
1. Check in on your brushing technique.
One of the most important things you can do to improve your periodontal health is to focus on your dental hygiene routine. By brushing with the correct technique at least twice per day, you can help to fight the bacteria that cause inflammation and infection of the gums. When you brush your teeth, be sure to hold the brush at a 45-degree angle from the gums. Then, brush each individual tooth in small, tooth-wide strokes. Be sure to get all of those tough to reach surfaces, including the backs of your front teeth and the molars.
2. Make flossing a habit.
We find that patients skip this part of their dental hygiene routine, but doing so can be extremely detrimental to the health of your gums! You should floss at least once every evening in order to get rid of the hidden bacteria that can cause gingivitis—an infection that can ultimately lead to gum disease. To help you remember to floss each day, leave your floss right next to your toothbrush and try setting a reminder on your phone.
3. Quit smoking.
Smoking is one of the most harmful habits when it comes to the health of your gums. Tobacco products can make you more susceptible to gum disease, as they weaken your immune system and create an environment in which bacteria can thrive. Also, periodontitis is more difficult to treat in smokers, so getting healthy can be even more difficult! Therefore, if you’d like to improve the health of your gums this year, it is important to throw out that pack of cigarettes right away.
4. Change your diet.
If you want to improve the health of your gums, it is important to start getting the vitamins and nutrients you need! Swap out those sugary snacks for foods that are rich in vitamin D, vitamin C, and calcium. Vitamin D will improve your chances of avoiding gingivitis by 20%, and vitamin C is great for bleeding gums! Calcium is great for your jawbone, and studies have shown that those who have 800 milligrams of calcium a day will reduce their risk of getting gum disease.
5. Book your next dentist appointment.
Regular dental visits are critical for the prevention and treatment of gum disease. During your appointment, your dentist will measure your gum pockets and evaluate the color and firmness of your gums to ensure you aren’t exhibiting any signs of periodontitis. You’ll also receive a professional teeth cleaning, which removes the plaque and tartar that would otherwise be harmful to the gums!
Are you ready to improve your gum health in 2019? Call Carillon Family Dental today to schedule your next appointment!