The statistic shows that 60% of adults in Canada have one gum infection or the other. The reason for this mass occurrence isn’t farfetched. Gum infections are mostly caused by bacteria found in plaques that form on the teeth when not properly cleaned. The bacteria in plaques are the chief causative agents of swollen gums also known as gingivitis.
When left unchecked, unhealthy gums could result in even worse conditions including serious gum diseases and tooth loss. But it doesn’t have to get to that. Keeping your gums healthy isn’t rocket science. There are easy routines you can practice to keep your gums healthy even without visiting the dental clinic. Compiled below are 5 simple routines you can practice to keep your gums healthy.
1. Consume The Right Food
The kind of food you eat not only determines your overall health but also goes a long way in determining the health of your gums. Regularly eating certain types of food such as apple and cucumber can help clean your gums, hence making them healthier. These particular fruits have abrasive textures that gently scrub over the surface of your teeth and gums when you eat them. This scrubbing mechanism helps rid your gums of plaques and other gum damaging microbes.
2. Quit Smoking
Smoking doesn’t only cause damage to your lungs and heart, it also to a large extent determines the health of your gum. I’m pretty sure you’re wondering; how can that be? Smoking causes damage to your health by weakening your immune system. In the same vein, smoking weakens the body’s immune system, making your gums vulnerable to infections and diseases that can damage them. When you quit smoking, your chances of contracting gum infection or diseases are lowered up to four times compared to that of a smoker.
3. Consume Less Sugar
Consuming foods, snacks, and drinks that contain large quantity of sugar is very detrimental to the health of your gum. Bacteria that cause teeth damage and gum infections feed on the left-over sugar debris on your teeth and gums. During this process, these microorganisms secrete harmful enzymes that attack the gum, causing serious infections that could lead to swelling and teeth damage. If you have to consume sugary treats at all, always remember to rinse out your mouth with water immediately after to prevent microbial build-up.
4. Get Regular Dental Cleaning
When plaques are not removed from the surface of your teeth in time, they harden and become tartar. This becomes a safe haven for bacteria that cause gum damage in the mouth. A very effective way to get rid of tartar on your teeth is by going for a dental cleaning. A regular visit to the dental clinic is a good way to keep your gums healthy and also prevent again serious gum infections such as gingivitis.
5. Brush Twice Daily with Fluoride Toothpaste
Brushing your teeth twice daily, most preferably after breakfast in the morning and after dinner at night, should be a regular ritual for anyone looking to have healthy teeth and gums. It is advisable to get a brush oft bristle that can easily fit into your mouth. This allows you to properly wash your teeth to remove plaques and debris between your teeth and the gums. Also, when shopping for toothpaste, only buy toothpaste that contains fluoride. The fluoride content of toothpaste prevents gingivitis, whitens your teeth and gives you fresh breath all day long.
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