When it comes to proper dental care, you must ensure that your gum tissue is in good condition. Maintaining proper gum health helps you avoid the effects of gingivitis, but it also keeps your teeth intact by deterring cavities and decay. Here are a few steps you can take to keep gums healthy. 

3 Tips to Care for Your Gums

1. Floss on a Daily Basis

Along with daily brushing, flossing is essential for keeping your mouth healthy. Flossing removes plaque and food debris from hard-to-reach places, such as between the teeth and along the gumline. Lack of flossing is a major cause of gum disease, but it can also lead to substantial tooth decay as gum disease advances. For the best results, use about 18 inches of floss and continually move to a clean section to avoid redistributing bacteria. You must also be gentle when flossing to prevent damage to gum tissue. 

2. Adjust Your Lifestyle

Certain habits can negatively impact gum health. For instance, smoking increases the risk of gum disease because it prevents efficient healing of gum tissue. Alcohol causes similar issues due to its drying effect, which increases oral bacteria and inhibits healing. If you currently smoke, quitting offers a whole host of benefits. If you drink, reducing how much alcohol you consume can help you avoid health issues. 

3. Know the Signs of Gum Disease

Symptoms of gum disease can be reversed in the early stages, so you must know what to look for. Swelling, redness, and bleeding while brushing all signal an issue with your gum health. Along with daily flossing and brushing, you should also schedule a dental care check-up, including a cleaning and examination, if you notice signs of gum disease. That way, your dentist can assess the situation and provide assistance to reduce the ill-effects.  

When you have questions about dental care and gum health, Charles P. Debbane, DDS, has the answers you're seeking. Serving patients throughout Hamilton, OH, for over two decades, Drs. Debbane and Laura M. Arnold, DDS, are well-known for the care and consideration they provide. In addition to cleaning and exams, this clinic also offers advanced procedures like dental implants and root canals. Feel free to visit the website to learn more about their services. You can also schedule a check-up today by calling (513) 887-6654.