Good gum health is the foundation for a great smile. If you’re like many people, though, you don’t think too much about your gums as you are putting in the effort to keep your teeth clean and healthy. There are a number of easy things you can implement into your daily life to foster good gum health.
1. KNOW IF YOU HAVE RISK FACTORS
Like other conditions, there are certain risk factors that can make you more prone to having poor gum health. While some of these risk factors — such as pregnancy, genetics, and crooked teeth — are beyond your control, there are others that can often be managed or addressed. For example, if you smoke or chew tobacco or have poor oral hygiene, your gums are at risk.
2. SIGNS OF POOR GUM HEALTH
In addition to knowing if you have any risk factors that could affect the health of your gums, you should also be aware of the signs that could indicate issues. These include gums that bleed easily or that no longer meet your teeth, gaps in your permanent teeth that weren’t there previously, partial dentures that no longer fit as they used to, and changes in your teeth bite or the way they fit together.
3. PRACTICE A GOOD DIET
Of course, eating a sweet treat is one of life’s many pleasures and they can often be enjoyed guilt-free on occasion. However, most days you should aim to practice good dietary habits. Not only is doing so the best way to protect your overall health, it can also contribute to good gum health, too. Incorporate more foods like apples and leafy greens into your diet. The extra chewing they require helps reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Add ginger root and raw onions to your diet on a regular basis. Both contain properties — such as anti-inflammatories and antimicrobials — that can kill bacteria and promote better gum health.
If you are concerned about an issue with your gums, give us a call. At Desert Lake Family Dentistry, we partner with you to provide top-notch dental services for your whole family. For more information about us or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
