Protecting The Health Of Your Gums
If you are like most people, you want to maintain the health of your teeth. As a result, tooth decay is likely a concern. However, gum disease should also be a concern. Severe cases of periodontal disease can result in tooth and bone loss. Thus, properly caring for your gums is important. Here are a few things you can do to help keep your gums in great condition.
Use a Water Flosser
Water flossing is an effective way to keep the gums and adjacent areas clean. The flosser, which is also called an oral irrigator, directs a concentrated stream of water at the desired areas along the gum line and between the teeth. The water flushes away plaque and food particles that may become caught along the gum line or in the folds of the soft tissues. In addition, it massages the gums to encourage good circulation.
The removal of the plaque is important because it contains oral microbes. The bacteria in the mouth metabolize leftover food from your meals and snacks and release acid as a byproduct. This acid inflames the gum tissue and causes gum disease.
Water flossing can be performed in conjunction with or in lieu of string flossing.
Rinse Daily With an Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Rinsing with an antibacterial mouth rinse can help minimize the number of bacteria in the mouth. The rinse can be used immediately after brushing and flossing to help remove any residual debris from the mouth as the rinse kills oral bacteria.
When selecting an antibacterial mouth rinse, look for products that contain non-drying active ingredients, such as chlorhexidine. Other antimicrobial agents, such as alcohol, can cause the soft tissues of the mouth to dry out and become irritated.
Rinse With a Solution of Baking Soda and Water
Rinsing the mouth with baking soda and water can also benefit your gums. The baking soda has an alkaline pH, which can help neutralize inflammatory oral acids.
To make the solution, simply add a spoon of baking soda to a cup of water and stir. You can rinse with the solution immediately after brushing or any time throughout the day. Since the solution is mild and using it does not involve the mechanical scrubbing of the teeth or gums, rinsing with baking soda and water is not harmful to the tooth enamel and should not cause gum irritation.
For more ways to protect your periodontal health, schedule a consultation with a dentist, like Tony Parsley, DMD, in your local area.
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