If you value your oral hygiene, caring for your teeth is essential, but don’t forget about your gums. Without proper gum care, you may develop gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Here are five ways to prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy and strong.

How to Take Care of Your Gums

1. Floss at Least Once Daily

Your dentist likely told you flossing helps maintain gum health. Flossing removes food and plaque from between the teeth and gums — areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Neglecting those areas can create a bacterial buildup known as tartar, which can lead to gum disease. 

2.  Brush Your Teeth Properly

Proper brushing technique is essential to your oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste that has a seal of acceptance from the American Dental Association (ADA), which should be listed on the label. Press gently as you brush. Replace the toothbrush every 3 to 4 months — or sooner if you notice the bristles fraying.

3. Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash

Brushing and flossing are vital elements of your oral hygiene routine, but using a therapeutic mouthwash can further protect your gums. Mouthwashes with the ADA seal can reduce plaque, slow the development of tartar, and prevent or reduce gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. 

4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Although brushing and flossing at home can get rid of plaque, only professional teeth cleaning removes tartar, a potential cause of gum disease. Cleanings also help remove any plaque you may have missed. Your dentist can also detect early signs of gum disease so you can treat it right away to stop it from developing. 

To keep your gums healthy and safe from disease, you need a dentist you can trust. That’s why you should turn to Diane M Evans DDS in Rush, NY. Treating patients of all ages, Dr. Evans and her team take a gentle approach to dental care. Whether you need a simple checkup to improve your oral hygiene or a more in-depth procedure — such as tooth extraction or a dental implant — the team will keep your visit as stress-free as possible. Learn more about their services online, and call (585) 321-1460 to schedule an appointment today.