5 Steps to Healthy Gums

Every time you brush your teeth, you’re not only protecting them from cavities, you're also protecting yourself from gum disease . The health of your teeth and gums are closely connected. If infections grow under the gums, you can lose bone mass and your teeth can become loose, requiring extraction. Because the health of your gums is so vital, here are five ways you can protect them:

1. FLOSSING: Floss your teeth every day without fail. Start with about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around one finger of each hand. Slide the floss gently between your teeth, making a “C” shape around the tooth. Move it up and down three times. Slide it gently under the gum line. Move to a clean section of floss after each tooth. Don’t forget the backs of every tooth.

2. BRUSHING: Brush twice a day for two full minutes using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush. With the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, brush back and forth gently with short strokes. Start with the outer and inside surfaces and then move to chewing surfaces.

3. MOUTHWASH: Place the recommended amount of mouthwash in a cup and pour it in your mouth. Swish it quickly around your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds. Then you can either gargle with that solution or use a new measure of mouthwash to gargle for 30 to 60 seconds.

4. NUTRITION: Add plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet, and exclude white flour, white sugar and processed foods. Your diet will be more nutritious and support better health.

5. PROFESSIONAL CARE: Be sure to come see us twice each year so we can give your teeth a thorough cleaning and check for any problems that might be showing up. Together, we can preserve the health of both your teeth and gums.

We care about your oral health. Contact StarBrite Dental in Rockville, MD for an appointment or consultation today.