Gum Care Month is a great time to focus on how to maintain healthy gums and understand their impact on your overall health. Here are some important takeaways on how to take care of your gums, how gum health affects your health, and what foods and drinks can contribute to or detract from gum health!
- Start by caring for your gums. You should brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums. Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas a toothbrush is unable to reach. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque, prevent gum disease, and freshen your breath. It’s also crucial to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups, as professional cleanings remove tartar that brushing and flossing cannot.
- Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals supports gum health, and staying hydrated helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Certain foods and drinks can benefit your gum health. Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery help clean your teeth and stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are high in vitamins and minerals that support gum health. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt provide calcium and vitamin D, which are important for maintaining strong teeth and gums. Green tea contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and help fight bacteria in the mouth, while nuts like almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats and vitamins that support oral health. On the other hand, it’s important to limit or avoid sugary foods and drinks such as candy and soda, as they can increase plaque buildup and the risk of gum disease. Acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits and juices, as well as vinegar-based products, can erode tooth enamel and irritate the gums. Starchy foods such as chips and white bread can break down into sugars and contribute to plaque formation, and excessive alcohol consumption can dry out the mouth and contribute to gum problems. You should also avoid tobacco products, both smoking and chewing tobacco, as it contributes to gum disease and delay healing.
- Healthy gums help prevent gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease), which can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease has been linked to other health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues, as inflammation in the gums can affect the rest of the body. Proper gum care helps prevent bad breath, which can result from gum disease and other oral health issues, and contributes to overall well-being, allowing you to eat comfortably and speak clearly.
By following these practices and making informed dietary choices, you can significantly improve your gum health and overall well-being. Be sure to stay on schedule for your routine dental visits and call Amundson Dental Associates at (701) 772-0171