How To Keep Your Gums Healthy

Do you worry that you’re not doing everything that you can to keep your gums healthy?

It seems like today there are so many things to worry about when it comes to your health, and oral disorders can be invisible, making it even harder to know if you’re taking care of yourself properly. To avoid dental problems that could cost you hundreds of dollars, here are some easy steps to add to your life to make sure you have top-notch dental hygiene:

1)    Visit your dentist regularly: The best thing you can do to prevent any major dental problems is to see your family dentist in Howell, Michigan regularly. 6-month checkups are vital to making sure that your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible.

2)    Make sure you’re eating healthy: There are lots of foods we eat that can contribute to the health of our teeth and gums. Calcium-rich foods (yogurt, cheese, milk, etc.) are very good for your teeth, helping to ensure they’re as strong as possible. If you eat candy or any kind of sweets, make sure to rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth afterwards to keep the sugar from staying in your mouth all day.

3)    Brush and floss properly: This might seem like a no-brainer, but brushing properly (twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste) and flossing are the best ways to take care of your gums. Floss helps remove plaque, which is the leading cause for gingivitis, and food particles, which can make the gums irritated. Your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan recommends using 18 inches of floss to reach all the areas of the mouth.

4)    Know the risk factors for gum disease: Preventive care involves knowing the risk factors of gum disease, which allows you to take the proper measures against any existing symptoms. The most common risk factors associated with this disease are:

• Age. Older people have the highest rates of gum disease, and that’s why continuing good dental hygiene as you get older is so important.
• Smoking or tobacco use. Aside from other health concerns, smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco (or both) can be very detrimental to the health of your mouth. A lot of studies suggest that tobacco use can increase the development of gum disease at an alarming rate.
• Genetics. Is there a history of gum disease in your family? If the answer is yes, there is a chance that you might be more likely to develop gum disease yourself, no matter how well you take care of your teeth. Your dentist can help evaluate you and put you on a preventive plan.

Be Your Best Advocate

The best thing to do if you think you’re at risk of developing gum disease is to see your dentist, and know the facts! The more knowledgeable you are, the more you’re capable of taking proper care of your gums.
 

Call to Schedule an Appointment With Your Family Dentist in Howell, Michigan!

Please schedule an appointment with Dr. DiStefano to discuss your concerns and care plan.  As one of the premiere family dentists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years’ experience caring for his patients’ health.  He strives to educate his patients and improve their lives through dental care and disease prevention.

Your health and smile are vital for you and very important to us! Contact us today 517-546-8983 to schedule an appointment and get on your way to better health and joyful life!