When you think of your oral health,you think of your teeth. How white they are, how straight they are, if you have a cavity, etc. But when you are taking proper care of your mouth you need to give your gums the same amount of love as you give your teeth.

Your gums are equally as important to take care of! Gum disease causes red, swollen gums, which can lead to loose teeth and infection pockets between your teeth and gums.

Gum disease can be avoided by being proactive and taking good care of your gums. For healthier gums, follow these five guidelines:

1. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day.

The first line of defense against gum disease is brushing your teeth at least twice a day. This is because it aids in the removal of plaque from your teeth. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush carefully with short strokes while holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums. Brush the outside surfaces of your teeth with short, back-and-forth strokes, and the inner upper-front teeth with short, downward strokes.

Pro tip: Don't wait until the bristles of your toothbrush are frayed before replacing it. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and you should also replace it if you've been sick.

2. Floss at least once a day.

Flossing at least once a day is essential for preventing gum disease. It cleans food and plaque from between your teeth and along your gum line, reducing the chance of tartar formation.

Tartar is bacteria that builds up on the teeth and hardens; it cannot be eliminated by brushing and must be removed by a dentist. Tartar can cause gum disease if it is allowed to form.

Use soft floss, dental picks, or flossers if flossing is difficult or uncomfortable for you.

See this blog here on how to properly floss.

3. Visit the dentist on a regular basis.

Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar from your teeth, therefore go to the dentist on a regular basis. These visits also allow your dentist to detect gum disease at its earliest stage, when it's easiest to cure.

Make an appointment with your dentist at least twice a year. If you have oral health problems, you may require more regular checkups.

4. Use mouthwash on a daily basis.

Mouthwash has a number of oral health advantages. Plaque and tartar bacteria that cause gum disease can be killed by rinsing with an anti-gingivitis mouthwash on a daily basis.

It doesn't matter if you use mouthwash before or after brushing; the important thing is that you use it. Simply swish it around in your mouth for 30-60 seconds.

5. Give up smoking.

Cigarette smoking impairs your immune system and increases your risk of gum disease. It may also impede blood flow to the gums by interfering with the regular function of gum tissue cells.

Cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products are all bad for your gums and mouth.

Conclusion

Gum disease is a serious condition that can harm your teeth, gums, and general oral health. You can lower your risk of gum disease and improve your dental health by following these guidelines.