A beautiful smile can make everyone's day shine and can increase your self-confidence level. Keep your teeth and gums healthy to avoid gum disease and unsightly spots.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Maintaining Healthy Gums
Step 1. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day
This is the first step you can take to take care of your teeth. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride, making sure to brush your teeth in the morning and evening every day. Set a timer for two minutes or listen to a short song to show the time.
- Don't "rub" your teeth too hard -- hold the brush like a pencil and scrub in thin, circular motions
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree position, along the gum line.
- Be sure to scrub your tongue and the roof of your mouth as well.
- Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months.
Step 2. Floss once a day
Flossing is still the most effective way to remove food and plaque between your teeth. It can irritate your gums if not removed. Make sure to reach each tooth from each side.
- The floss should form a "C" around the teeth.
- Don't push up to your gums -- press down to your gum line but not any further.
Step 3. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to clean your entire mouth
Your teeth make up only 25% of your entire mouth and you need to keep your entire mouth clean to prevent infections that lead to unhealthy gums. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash several times a week, but avoid mouth washes that contain alcohol, as they will do more damage.
Step 4. Eat “gum friendly” foods
Foods that contain sugar, chewing gum and soda can increase the growth of unhealthy bacteria in your mouth which can lead to gum disease. Potato chips, crackers and dried fruit can stick to your teeth, the leftovers can cause damage if not removed immediately. Since most people don't brush their teeth after eating a snack, the leftovers can stick to their teeth for hours.
- Foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, are very good for dental health.
- Vegetables, hummus and fresh fruit are healthy alternatives for your mouth.
- If you eat foods that contain sugar, rinse your mouth with water afterwards when you can't brush your teeth.
Step 5. Drink lots of water
Saliva is essential for keeping your mouth healthy and keeping bacteria in balance. Drink 118-236 ml of water every hour -- especially when you feel thirsty or when your mouth is dry.
Step 6. Visit your dentist and oral nurse every 6 to 8 months
They are trained to spot any problems with your gums and can give you specific suggestions to help you keep your gums happy and healthy. Be sure to make regular appointments, even when you think you have no problems.
Method 2 of 2: Avoiding Gum Disease
Step 1. Know when you are at risk for gum disease
There are several risk factors for gum disease that are beyond your control. If you have any of the following factors, be sure to talk to your dentist about ways to prevent gum disease:
- Diabetes
- Family history of gum disease
- Hormonal changes in women and girls
- Treatments that cause dry mouth
- Diseases that attack immunity, such as cancer or AIDS
- Bad oral health habits.
Step 2. Avoid smoking
Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease in the world, and can prevent treatments from functioning properly. The easiest way to avoid gum disease is to quit smoking.
Step 3. Perform professional cleaning twice a year
Most gum disease can be prevented by removing plaque from your teeth. Dentists and oral nurses are the people who are best able to do this. Be sure to make regular visits.
Step 4. Know the symptoms of gum disease
Uncontrolled gum disease can damage the tissue and cartilage in your mouth and can lead to tooth decay. If you experience any of the following symptoms chronically, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately:
- The smell of breath that can't go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Sore or bleeding gums
- Pain when chewing
- loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Reclining gums (teeth appear "longer" than usual)
Step 5. Check with your dentist before the gum disease develops
Gingivitis occurs when the gums become inflamed or swollen, and is especially harmless on its own. However, if it can develop into periodontitis if not treated immediately, which is when the gums separate from the teeth, causing bacteria to enter and damage your teeth. If your gums don't feel better with regular brushing and flossing, you may need antibiotics or surgery to prevent disease.
