6 Tips For Preventing Gum Disease From a Dentist in Westhampton!

Did you know that almost 4 out of every 5 adults have some form of gum disease? You may not give your gums a second thought, but they actually form the foundation of a healthy smile. In fact, advanced gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to prevent gum disease so you can have a great smile for as long as possible. In this blog, you’ll learn about 6 of the best ways to keep your gums in tip-top shape from a dentist in Westhampton!

1. Consume Plenty of Healthy Protein

Protein is important for every aspect of physical health, including oral health. Not only does it contribute to healthy teeth, it’s also crucial for maintaining and repairing gum tissue.

Low-sugar yogurt, lean meats, fish and dairy are all good examples of gum-friendly foods to add to your daily diet!

2. Use the Right Products

A mouthwash can be a wonderful addition (not a substitute!) to any hygiene routine. While fluoride mouthwashes are helpful for people who get a lot of cavities, antiseptic rinses are better for preventing gum disease.

The flushing action and anti-bacterial effect of these rinses can get into the nooks and crannies of the mouth where bacteria hide. These bacteria are responsible for gum disease, so anything that helps keep them at bay is beneficial for the gums.

3. Fruits and Veggies Are Good For Your Gums, Too!

Eating a variety of produce each day can help reduce inflammation in the entire body, including the gums.

Since inflammation is a major factor in gum disease, giving your body the fuel it needs to reduce inflammation is a great way to have healthy gums.

4. Straighten Your Teeth

You might primarily think of orthodontics as a way to improve the appearance of your smile, but it makes it much easier to keep your gums healthy as well!

When the teeth are crowded, it’s more difficult to access tight spaces with a toothbrush or floss. Straightening the teeth reduces the places where bacteria can hide.

5. An Electric Toothbrush Can Make a Big Difference

Electric brushes provide anywhere from 6,000-30,000 brush strokes a minute, which is impossible to do with a manual brush! Most patients who make the switch can’t believe how much cleaner their teeth and gums feel after brushing with an electric.

By brushing with an electric twice a day, you can look forward to healthier gums and easier checkups.

6. Chew the Right Gum After Meals

Sugar-free gum is a great way to help clean your teeth and gums when a toothbrush isn’t available. It stimulates salivary flow, which not only removes plaque and food debris but also neutralizes the acids that attack the teeth and gums.

With these 6 tips, you’ll be making sure you have a strong foundation of healthy gum for many years of great oral health!

About the Author

Dr. William Way knows that everyday habits and lifestyle choices have a huge impact on the long-term dental health of his patients. With a focus on prevention, he makes sure to stress the importance of establishing the right habits to help his patients stay out of the dental chair as much as possible. If you have any questions, he can be reached via his website or at (804) 288-0948.