Tips To Keep Your Gums Healthy At Home

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth and gums! Your gums protect your teeth and help keep them in place. But did you know that healthy gums can also play an important role in maintaining overall good health? Unhealthy, bleeding and inflamed gums not only lead to periodontal disease and tooth loss, it can also put patients at risk for developing cardiovascular or other systemic diseases. Stop this from happening with the right oral care routine at home.

What happens if your gums aren’t healthy?

As plaque builds on your gumline, it can make your gums painful and inflamed. This bacterial growth turns into gingivitis, a mild gum disease, and if left untreated will turn into periodontal disease, such as periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious bacterial infection of the gums that can cause bone loss around teeth, that could eventually lead to tooth loss. Although periodontitis is a serious disease, it can be prevented with early intervention of gum disease.

Symptoms of unhealthy gums

Here are a few warning signs of periodontal disease to be on the lookout for:

  • Swollen gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Tender gums
  • Receding gumline
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Bad breath

If you have any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a periodontist as soon as possible. A periodontist is a dentist that specializes in the treatment and prevention of gum disease. They have additional training beyond a general dental degree, so they are the best doctor who can assist with this.

How to treat gum disease at home

Although periodontal disease can lead to serious complications if left untreated, the good news is that it can be prevented with proper oral care at home, regular dental check-ups, and professional teeth cleanings.

Here are a few ways to keep your gums healthy:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day, ideally after every meal
  • Floss daily
  • Use a toothbrush with soft bristles
  • Rinse with mouthwash
  • Avoid foods that are high in sugar
  • Eat fiber rich fruits and vegetables that can fight bacterial acid.

If you’re wondering “how to get healthy gums again” here are a few additional things you can do:

Salt water rinse

Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help kill bacteria in your mouth. Start by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Rinse the solution in your mouth for approximately 10-15 seconds then spit. Make sure not to swallow the salt water. Repeat this 3-4 times per week. A salt water rinse not only reduces the bacteria in your mouth, it also helps eliminate bad breath.

Antibacterial mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help keep the bacteria in your mouth in check. Use a mouthwash that’s alcohol-free, and rinse for 30 then spit. Make this part of your daily routine.

Turmeric powder

Turmeric powder has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce bacterial infections. Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little bit of water, and gently apply it onto your gums and teeth. Leave the paste on your gums for at least ten minutes then rinse.

Schedule an appointment

Overall, unhealthy gums can be avoided with proper oral care at home and regular dental visits. If you think you have gum disease, don’t wait to see a periodontist. Let us help. We have two convenient Florida locations in Tampa and Port Richey. Our experienced and reputable periodontists are here to help with all your periodontal needs. Schedule an appointment today.

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