Just like a plant’s roots are embedded in the soil, similarly, your gums hold your teeth. Apart from being a supportive structure, gums protect bacteria from entering into deeper parts of teeth keeping infections at bay.
Table of Contents
How important gum health is?
Unfortunately, our lifestyle choices can greatly affect our oral health including the consumption of sugary foods and not ensuring good oral hygiene practices. Among common health problems, gum diseases have a distinct place.
In case of problems with gums health, gums can get;
- Inflamed
- Swell
- Become tender and reddish
- Become susceptible to bleeding
The problems with gums can result from slight pain and can result in teeth loss depending upon the severity of the problem, as revealed by a top dentist in Rawalpindi. However, in most cases, these gum problems are preventable by minor changes in oral healthcare routine.
How to prevent gum health problems?
Gum health problems are quite common and can result in bigger treatments if not treated properly. Thus, the prevention of gum health problems is really crucial. Some of the effective ways to prevent gum problems are;
1- Brush twice a day
This is probably the most said word when it comes to teeth and oral health. Brushing twice a day can clean your teeth at regular time intervals which prevents the accumulation of food or plaque in between your teeth. The practice of brushing isn’t only limited to teeth but also refers to the inner mouth surfaces including the tongue and inner sides of cheeks. This makes you teeth and jaws healthy and strong.
2- Flossing
I understand that you brush your teeth twice a day but there not everything is accessible for your toothbrush. There are smaller-sized food particles and plaque that is hard to be removed by brushing and can only be removed by flossing. There is no designated time for flossing so you can do it anytime you want. But just remember, do floss once a day!
3- Try neem
Neem is an evergreen solution for all our microbial infection problems. The use of neem is an ayurvedic remedy to treat dental health problems due to bacterial infection. Neem can reduce plaque formation as well as inhibit other gum health-related problems. You can prepare a DIY neem mouthwash and use it at a regular time interval to enjoy maximum health benefits.
4- Vitamin C might help your gums!
We all are aware of the numerous health benefits of vitamin C. From iron absorption to boosting immunity, vitamin C does it all. Several studies support the use of vitamin C to minimize oral health problems. You can improve your dietary intake of vitamin C to enjoy better oral health. To get more vitamin C, you can either try bell pepper, oranges, and kiwi. Moreover, you can also try dietary supplements.
5- Oil pulling
Oil pulling is another effective remedy that can support the health of your gums. In this year’s old remedy one tablespoon of oil (preferably coconut) is swished around the mouth for about half to one minute. Oil pulling can help to reduce the plaque buildup and protect against gums problems.
6- Consider your lifestyle choices
Smoking is as bad for you as it is for the heart, said a renowned dentist from Shah Dental Clinic in an oral health seminar. The association between oral health and lifestyle needs no introduction and it isn’t only limited to smoking. Lifestyle habits that can affect the oral health of a person take in stress and consumption of tobacco. If you are into the habit of smoking then remember you are increasing your risk for oral cancers.
7- Look at what you are eating
Your diet also tends to affect your overall oral and gum health. Foods can be generally characterized into gum healthy and gum damaging foods. For improved gum health you need to avoid the foods that have a high sugar content and can promote the growth of oral microbes.
In case your gums are already damaged, it is advisable to not use them for chewing or peeling hard textured items. Further, foods with low or moderate sugar content and high levels of calcium can be significantly important in improving the health of your gums.
8- Carefully choose your oral care products
You spend too much time choosing a makeup brush but when it comes to your oral health, you are less likely to pay attention. Usually, price tags determine which toothbrush or toothpaste we are going to use. However, don’t forget to follow proper guidelines when it comes to your toothbrush choice (soft bristles, right-sized) and as a rule of thumb, you can simply go for fluoride toothpaste.
9- Visit your dentist
Your oral health is crucial for your overall well-being and healthy gums can assure to you. Many people tend to skip their dental checkups because they don’t see themselves struggling with the issues. Remember, no matter how you feel about your oral health, always visit your dentist two to three times a year. Your dentist can better diagnose the problem and come up with a workable solution for your problem.
Takeaway!
Your gum plays a key role when it comes to your oral health. So, take care of your gums by following the above-mentioned gum health practices to protect your smile. In case you notice any problem with your gums and have indicator signs and symbols, it is always recommended to go to a dentist for the proper treatment.