Gum health is something that often gets overlooked when talking about oral health, but it’s an incredibly important part to us – Dental & Aesthetics of Pittsburgh specialists. There are many small things that you can do to improve your gum health, such as keeping up with daily brushing and flossing, or a diet change. Here at Dental & Aesthetics of Pittsburgh, we’ve created a list of ways that you can subtly change your life to better your gum and overall mouth health.

1. Keeping up With Daily Flossing and Brushing

A Few Extra Minutes of Your Day for Healthier Gums

It’s common knowledge that we should be brushing and flossing our teeth twice a day, but how many people actually do this? Delta Dental found that 30% of people never floss their teeth as well as 31% of people fail to brush their teeth twice a day. Despite these statistics, it’s important to remember your daily brushing and flossing, as it will greatly improve your gum health. Additionally, make sure that you’re brushing and flossing your teeth correctly, as incorrect brushing and flossing habits twice a day won’t help your oral health nearly as much.

2. Stop Smoking or Cut Down on Smoking

Smoking Damages Gums and Can Make You More Prone to Gum Disease

It’s common knowledge that smoking isn’t good for you—but how does it affect your gum health? As a smoker, you’re twice as likely to develop gum disease due to how smoking affects your immune system and mouth. While quitting is the best way to lower your risk of gum disease, we understand that quitting smoking can be incredibly difficult, so monitoring your gums for any signs of gum disease is incredibly important if you continue to smoke. 

3. Use a High-Quality, Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride Helps Protect Teeth and Gums, Improving Gum Health

Brushing and flossing is incredibly important, but so is the specific toothpaste you’re using. Fluoride helps protect your teeth and gums by being absorbed into the enamel and fighting acid-producing bacteria from the foods we eat. Something else to keep in mind is that Fluoride isn’t only found in water and toothpaste—it can also be found in gel and varnish forms, available at most dentists, including Crafton Dental Specialists. Keeping mouth bacteria to a minimum can help improve gum health, so keeping Fluoride in mind is essential.

4. Getting Regular Professional Cleanings

Crafton Dental Specialists Can Help Transform Your Oral Health

One of the best ways to ensure that your gums are healthy is through regular professional cleanings and checkups, as your dentist can closely monitor your oral health and give your teeth a thorough cleaning to rid your mouth of any plaque or stuck food. It’s recommended that you go to the dentist once every 6 months, with a year being the absolute maximum time between appointments. Crafton dental specialists Dental & Aesthetics of Pittsburgh can aid you in your dental journey to healthier gums.

5. Eat a Nutritious, Healthy Diet

The More Nutrition Your Body Has, the Healthier Your Gums Will Become

When you eat a nutritious diet, your body will thank you for it in many ways, including improved gum health. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, and some dairy products are great for your overall health and aren’t stressful for your mouth. Not only will the extra nutrients keep your body fueled and overall healthier, but less sugary and salty junk foods will improve the overall health of your mouth as well. 

Worried about your gum health or just want a professional cleaning? It can be intimidating going to the dentist, but seeing a professional for more information and advice is an incredibly useful resource. Contact Crafton dental specialists Dental & Aesthetics of Pittsburgh to schedule a discounted appointment for new clients