September Is National Gum Care Month
No, National Gum Care Month is not the only month during the year when we give our gums attention. Instead, the month of September is for educating dental patients on how to properly take care of their gums for the entire year. People who suffer from gum disease are up to three times more likely to experience a serious cardiac event such as heart attack or stroke. In our book, that’s reason enough to make gum care a top priority.
Our Top 5 Tips For Healthy Gums
- Get a Periodontal Screening: Screenings are how we monitor gum health. There’s a greater chance we’ll catch gum disease in the early stages if you’re visiting us for regular screenings. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule a screening now:
- Tender or swollen gums
- Gums prone to bleeding
- Separating or loose adult teeth
- Gum tissue pulling away from your teeth
- Persistent bad taste in your mouth
- Never Smoke, Vape, or Chew Tobacco: Cancer isn’t the only health issue linked to using tobacco. Tobacco products of all kinds are also linked to a weakened immune system, and research has shown a similar link to e-cigarettes as well. Weakened immune response means the body is less able to naturally fight off infections and diseases, including gum disease. If you do smoke, vape, or chew tobacco, the best time to quit is right now. Your gums, and the rest of your body, will be glad you did.
- Brush Your Teeth, Tongue, & Gums: Most people know to brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, but it’s less commonly taught that brushing should include the tongue and gums. Brushing more than just your teeth staves off harmful bacteria and helps your mouth stay disease free.
- Floss Under Teeth: Proper flossing should get the thread under the tooth to scrape out the plaque that likes to wedge itself into the gums. Giving proper flossing attention to the front and backs of all your teeth goes a long way to strengthening your gums.
- Use a Good Mouthwash: There are many kinds of mouthwash, but the brands you should use are those with an American Dental Association seal of approval. A proper therapeutic mouthwash can slow tartar buildup, reduce plaque, and fight off gingivitis.
If you’re following our tips, you’re on the road to healthy gums. Be sure to visit the Smiles by Holsinger & Higgins office located in Denton, MD so we can check in on your gum health! You can schedule your next appointment over the phone or through our online portal.
