September Is National Gum Care Month • Larson Creek Dental
925
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-925,single-format-standard,bridge-core-3.3.3,qode-page-transition-enabled,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,no_animation_on_touch,qode-title-hidden,qode_grid_1300,footer_responsive_adv,qode-theme-ver-30.8.5,qode-theme-bridge,qode_header_in_grid,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-8.2,vc_responsive

September Is National Gum Care Month

Taking care of your gums is important. Not only do the gums protect your teeth, but the health of your gums can impact other health conditions you may have. That’s why September is National Gum Care Month, to provide education and awareness about gum disease and to understand how to take care of your gums. Without proper care, you could develop gingivitis.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR IF YOU ARE HAVING ISSUES WITH YOUR GUMS

  • Your gums will appear red or swollen in certain spots
  • Your gums might feel tender when you brush them
  • You notice your gums are bleeding easily
  • You notice that your gums are pulling away from your teeth

TAKING CARE OF YOUR GUMS

Although gingivitis may develop easily, it is also easy to prevent as long as you stick to a consistent dental hygiene routine. We strongly recommend brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly at least two times a day. Keep in mind that when you brush your teeth and gums, you should not be too aggressive. Brushing your gums too hard can damage them and cause them to bleed. 

6 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL GUM CARE MONTH

  1. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Sticky plaque builds up on the teeth continually, and if left there it quickly develops into tartar, a hard substance that can only be removed by a professional. Both plaque and tartar contribute to gum disease.
  2. Floss regularly. Regularly, in this instance, should be interpreted as “every day”. Brushing removes plaque from your teeth, but only floss can clean below the gumline.
  3. Use mouthwash to remove small particles and reduce plaque. Mouthwash is no substitute for brushing and flossing, but when used alongside other healthy habits it can freshen breath, eliminate bacteria and keep teeth strong.
  4. Floss with water. A water irrigator, also known as an oral irrigator or a dental water jet, is a device that shoots a stream of water between the teeth to remove plaque and bacteria. Add it to your morning routine for a really fresh, deep cleaning.
  5. Eat a nutritious diet.  A healthy, balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients and low in sugar can boost the immune system and help your body fight off harmful bacteria, inflammation and infection. If you want to keep your teeth white, don’t forget to eat your greens!
  6. Make friends with your dentist. See your dentist every six months for a good cleaning. He can also assess the health of your teeth and gums and refer you to a periodontist if you are experiencing any problems. Early treatment of gum disease is important. Left unchecked, it can destroy teeth, gums, bones and connective tissue, and contribute a variety of health problems.  

If you are concerned about the health of your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment TODAY!