Any dental office professional will tell you that healthy gums are the root of healthy teeth. When you neglect your gums, you can experience tenderness, redness, inflammation, and bleeding—and that’s just the early stages of gum disease. Later, the bones and tissues that hold your teeth in place can become damaged, resulting in tooth loss. Luckily, you can prevent gum disease by following the four tips below.

4 Tips to Maintain Your Gum’s Health 

1. Brush After Meals

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day rids your mouth of the bacteria buildup that otherwise causes tooth decay and gum disease. Make sure you brush gently to avoid damaging your gum line.

2. Floss Daily

Flossing removes the food particles your toothbrush can’t get to. And it doesn’t matter what time of day you floss—as long as you implement this oral health habit daily, your gums will stay in great shape.

3. Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash reduces tartar buildup and removes even the tiniest particles of food. Choose a therapeutic mouthwash over a cosmetic one—cosmetic mouthwash controls bad breath, but it doesn’t have the ingredients needed to prevent plaque buildup. Ask your local dental office for recommendations on a mouthwash brand they prefer.

4. Quit Smoking

Studies have found a strong correlation between smoking and gum disease. When you smoke, your body has a harder time fighting infection, and it takes longer for your gums to heal from damage. People who smoke are twice as likely to experience gum disease—and the more cigarettes you smoke daily, the higher your risk.

Fallbrook Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, is the premier source for dental care. Their team has a reputation for offering patients of all ages the latest, high-quality treatments in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. If you have been neglecting your oral health, let this dental office get you back on track. Schedule an appointment with them online or call (402) 467­-0007 to speak with a friendly member of their staff today.