Today, up to 90% of the American population has gingivitis. This is a gum disease that’s not only uncomfortable and sometimes painful but can also give you bad breath and threaten your overall oral health.

However, you can keep gingivitis and other periodontal diseases at bay by having a good dental routine. That way, you’ll have healthy gums that’ll feel and look fantastic.

Read on for 5 tips on how you can get healthy gums!

1. Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing aren’t just beneficial for your teeth; they help your gums stay healthy too! Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every 3 to 4 months, or when the bristles become frayed. Don’t forget to scrub your tongue too since bacteria can grow there as well.

It’s also best to use an electric toothbrush. It’s more effective than manual brushing and has a built-in light to tell you if you’re brushing too hard.

Floss after every meal to remove food and plaque. This can also stimulate your gums by increasing blood flow, and it’ll result in stronger gums. If you can’t manage to floss after every meal, do it at least once daily.

2. A Good Diet

Eating too many sweets and junk food can deteriorate your teeth and encourage bad bacteria to grow in your mouth. As a result, this can cause your gums to become unhealthy.

Opt for lots of whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Not only will this improve your oral health, but your overall health too!

3. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration has numerous benefits, including bacteria control in your mouth. Oral bacteria thrive on dryness, so drinking plenty of water can keep their population from exploding.

In general, it’s recommended that men get 15.5 cups of water a day and that women get 11.5 cups daily.

4. Stop Smoking

If you’re a smoker, then you probably already know that this habit is harmful to your heart and lungs. It also weakens your immune system.

But did you know that smoking’s heavily associated with gum disease? Not only that, but because your immune system’s weakened, it’s harder for your gums to heal if they get damaged.

5. Don’t Skip Dental Visits

If it’s been years since you’ve seen a dentist, then it’s time to book an appointment. Not only can they thoroughly check your teeth and gums for issues, but they can also provide professional cleanings. These are important since they can remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar you can’t eliminate through regular flossing and brushing.

Get Healthy Gums for Good Dental Health

Now you have excellent tips to get and maintain healthy gums. Not only should you brush and floss regularly, but you should also eat a good diet, stay hydrated, and stop smoking. Most importantly, you should see a dentist for exams and cleanings.

By putting in the time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful gums that’ll set you up for a brighter future.

If you’d like to keep up with your oral health, schedule an appointment with us now. We have two offices in Temecula and Riverside.