Healthy gums are the foundation for the rest of your oral health because they hold your teeth in place and work with your jaw to help you chew. Keep them healthy if you want to avoid gum disease (gingivitis). Both gingivitis and receding gums lead to tooth decay and other serious conditions. Dentists, therefore, recommend the following five simple steps to protect the health of your gums.

5 Easy Steps for Healthy Gums

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day to remove food particles and stains that can cause plaque and tartar buildup. To prevent plaque and tartar, dentists recommend a soft-bristled brush, fluoride toothpaste, and gentle brushing strokes.

2. Use Mouthwash

Depending on your gum health, your dentist may recommend either therapeutic or cosmetic (over-the-counter) mouthwash. Mouthwash should always be used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a replacement. Additionally, choose a mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth and gums.

3. Scrape Your Tongue

Although many people don’t scrape their tongues, they should adopt the practice to stave off gum disease. Along with brushing, scraping your tongue twice a day with a specialized tongue scraper removes bacteria. Tongue scrapers can remove more bacteria from your tongue than any other implement, including your toothbrush.

4. Drink Water

Staying hydrated throughout the day prevents dry mouth, which can be damaging to your gums, and washes away food and bacteria. Hydrated mouths, also, produce more saliva, which is an anti-bacterial agent. Take sips of water throughout the day, and drink water with meals and snacks.

5. Schedule Regular Checkups

Dentists are big proponents of regular dental checkups for a reason. Checkups give them a chance to spot trouble and intervene with periodontal therapy, if necessary. Most people schedule cleanings every 6 months, but talk with your dental team to determine if you would benefit from more frequent appointments.

For more advice on keeping your teeth and gums healthy, look no further than Amison Dental Group of Canton, OH. They have years of experience in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. They also offer a wide range of cosmetic services, including whitening and Invisalign®. Call (330) 452-2255 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about dental hygiene and disease prevention.