When taking care of your oral health, it is essential to pay an equal amount of attention to your teeth and gums. Even if you have even, bright, healthy teeth, you may have problems with your gums that are difficult to spot. If left untreated, these concerns can lead to gum disease, which occurs when plaque and tartar begin to build under the gum line, making your gums red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. However, you can achieve and maintain healthy gums with proper brushing and flossing, regular cleanings, and a well-balanced diet.
At Park Smiles NYC, we prioritize our patients’ health and safety, so you can trust us to provide the information and guidance you need to keep your gums healthy. With over eight certified doctors and nine dental specialists, we offer the top-of-the-line care you deserve. Our dedicated team works closely with you every step of the way to create a personalized treatment tailored to your unique needs and gum health, giving you the knowledge needed to prevent gum disease.
5 Tips for Healthy Gums to Prevent Gum Disease
According to the National Library of Medicine, over 42% of all U.S. adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. Fortunately, gum disease is preventable, and with the following tips, you can maintain healthy gums:
Brushing and Flossing
Implementing healthy oral health habits is crucial to preventing gum disease. This includes brushing after every meal or twice daily and flossing every day. When brushing, try holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and brushing gently using short strokes. Additionally, using an electric or soft-bristle toothbrush can help better clean your teeth and reduce your risk of gum disease.
Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food in places your toothbrush may not reach. Whether you floss in the morning, mid-day, or at night, flossing at least once a day can help keep your gums clean and free of harmful bacteria.
Use the Right Products
In addition to brushing and flossing, using the right products to care for your teeth and gums at home helps keep your gums healthy. For example, fluoride toothpaste interferes with bacteria’s ability to make acid and puts minerals back into your teeth, making it an effective product for maintaining healthy gums.
Regular Dental Cleanings
Because the early stages of gum disease can be challenging to detect on your own, it is crucial to get regular dental cleanings with Park Smiles NYC. Our team understands the early signs of this issue and can treat it before it causes long-term damage. Additionally, professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar, which is hardened plaque. We can help eliminate any plaque you missed and reverse gum disease if you have symptoms.
Avoid Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase your risk of gum disease. Some common habits that can negatively impact your oral health include the following:
- Smoking: Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the infection and heal.
- Teeth grinding: Bruxism can damage the soft tissue that holds your teeth in place and cause your gums to recede. This makes your gums more prone to bleeding and creates deep pockets for bacteria to collect.
- Stress: Stress can make your teeth grinding worse, increase inflammation, and slow the healing process.
Managing these risk factors can help you maintain healthy gums and quickly reverse signs of gum disease to prevent future problems.
Well-Balanced Diet
Certain foods can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen your teeth and gums. For example, milk, cheese, leafy greens, beans, and almonds are rich in calcium, which helps maintain bone health and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Limiting your consumption of sugary drinks and foods and rinsing your mouth after eating or drinking these products can help prevent gum disease. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, which can produce acid and plaque, which may damage the gums.
Discuss Your Gum Health With the Knowledgeable Team at Park Smiles NYC
Don’t let gum disease compromise your smile. At Park Smiles NYC, our expert team is here to help you maintain healthy gums with personalized care and top-notch dental services. With our patient-focused approach, you can count on us for regular cleanings, advice on the best oral care products, and strategies to reduce risk factors.
In our comfortable offices, we utilize the latest technology and techniques to give you the best care possible. Your gum health matters to us, and together, we can prevent gum disease and ensure your smile stays radiant. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile. Call us at (212) 988-6724 or visit our contact form to book your appointment now.