Healthy Habits for Healthy Gums

There is more to a healthy mouth than just healthy teeth. Your gums play a very important role in maintaining your teeth, and gum disease often goes neglected since it is often painless.

Gums (or gingiva) and their underlying bone form the basic structure that supports the teeth in their position. Weak or infected gums and bone recede, causing the teeth to become mobile over time. Which is why you cannot forget about the health of your gums, too!

What is gum disease?

Gum inflammation, called gingivitis, occurs when there is excess plaque buildup between the teeth and gums. This soft, sticky film on the teeth is loaded with bacteria, and this irritates the gums, causing them to swell and recede. They also become tender, bleed easily and pull away from the teeth.

What Are The Healthy Gum Habits?

• Regular Brushing is the most important and underrated treatment of gum disease. It simply cannot be skipped

• Flossing regularly is also of utmost importance for healthy teeth. When you skip flossing, you miss cleaning 33% of your tooth surface, which is inaccessible to your toothbrush.

• Routine gum massage is a great way to keep the blood flowing through healthy gums.

• Regular dental cleanings are also essential to keep plaque, tartar and other gum irritants at bay. A quick 30-minute procedure at the dentist is sufficient to keep your gums healthy for the next 6 months!

• If your gums are already infected/ swollen/ bleeding, they might need some additional therapy at the dentist’s office which should be addressed before permanent damage is done.

What foods help prevent gum disease?

1. Fibrous fruits and vegetables like apples, spinach and celery. These have a cleansing action on the teeth and gums which help to dislodge plaque sticking to the teeth. They also increase saliva production which helps wash away acid on the teeth
2. Milk and milk products are high in calcium which help fortify your teeth and gums
3. Ginger is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent which can help heal swollen gums
4. Citrus fruits rich in Vitamin C are also great for your gum health
5. Sugar free gum, especially with xylitol has numerous benefits including increasing saliva flow and dislodging plaque along with reducing the acidic nature of the oral environment
6. Drinking plenty of water absolutely cannot be missed for healthy teeth and gums
7. Unsweetened tea is astringent and helps reduce swelling and keep gums healthy, but added sugar will be detrimental to the mouth

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