5 ways to solve gum problems

With proper dental care, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your life. The healthier the  teeth and gums, the lesser the chances of you developing tooth decay and gum disease, says Dr. Ranjitha Mukund, Green Meadow Dental, 3579 B Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06111.

Gum disease is caused by formation of plaque (a sticky film made of bacteria, mucus and other particles) on the teeth. If plaque is not removed regularly, it becomes hard and harbor bacteria, which may cause damage to teeth and gums, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

Here are five basic steps to care for your teeth and gums and prevent gum diseases:

1. Brushing – Brush at least twice a day and after every meal to prevent plaque formation. Avoid brushing immediately after eating as this will allow any enamel that softened from acid during eating to re-harden and not get brushed away.

• Use soft-bristled toothbrush and each tooth gently. Do not scrub vigorously, as it can damage your gums and wear out the enamel.

Watch our video to learn the right brushing technique. 

2. Flossing – Floss at least once a day (preferably before going to bed), as flossing get rid of food particles between the teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. To floss properly:

• Use about 12–18 inches of floss wound tightly between your thumbs and forefingers and guide gently between your teeth in a rubbing motion.
• While gently rubbing floss on the sides of the tooth, move it in up and down motions, repeating this method for the rest of your teeth.

Learn to floss the right way in our video on flossing! 

3. Eating right – For good dental health, you need to eat healthy food as the food you eat can contribute to tooth decay. To protect your teeth and gum, you need to:

• Consume calcium-rich food such as milk, yogurt and cheese as calcium maintains good health of the bones where the tooth roots are embedded.
• Avoid foods that contain sugars and starches as such foods produce acids in the mouth and damage the teeth.

4. Rinsing – Rinse your mouth regularly with a good antiseptic mouthwash. Rinsing helps to remove any adhered food particles and reduce harmful bacteria that can lead to plaque formation and mild gum disease.

• Rinse mouth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal.
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash as alcohol can dry the inside of your mouth and may cause chemical erosion of enamel.

5. Visit your dentist – Visit your dentist at least once every six months to maintain healthy gums and teeth. If you keep your gum inflammation (gingivitis) untreated it can lead to periodontitis (inflammatory disease affecting soft tissues and bone supporting the teeth). Therefore, you should immediately see your dentist if you have pain or bleeding gums to prevent further complications.

These five important steps will help to keep your gums healthy and free of diseases.

Many people from Kensington come to our office because we are conveniently located next to Target. Our flexible hours and family dental practice makes it easy for busy families to schedule visits for both parents and children.

To know more on how to take care of your gums contact Green Meadow Dental, 3579 B Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06111 (860)-865-0056.Many people from Berlin  come to our office because we are conveniently located next to Target. Our flexible hours and family dental practice makes it easy for busy families to schedule visits for both parents and children.
 We also service patients from surrounding areas including Cromwell, Plainville and East Berlin.