How Oral Hygiene Supports Your Gum Health

Maintaining a healthy smile requires supporting healthy gums in addition to cleaning your teeth. Did you know that your daily brushing and flossing efforts are vital to protecting your gingival tissues from bacterial infection? The same culprits that cause cavities can cause recession and bleeding in your gums when left to collect on your smile’s surface.

At your Encinias/San Diego, CA periodontal office, we stress maintaining a preventive attitude when it come to periodontal health. Because gum disease is not reversible once it reaches your jawbone, rigorous oral hygiene is your first line against preventing a permanent infection. If you notice symptoms of an infection while brushing your teeth, please let us know right away so we can put you on a path to recovery!

How Does Gum Disease Begin?

Common symptoms of gum infection that alert you to its presence include soreness, consistent bleeding, and recession of the tissue away from your teeth. In it’s first stage, gingivitis, the inflammatory response of your body begins to erode the gum tissue as it hopes to escape the bacteria that are infecting it. This creates periodontal pockets where bacteria collect and can become harder to treat with your brush and floss at home. Other factors that promote disease include a diet high sugar and strach. These foods accelerate the growth of oral bacteria and can speed up the rate at which your disease grows. To prevent an infection from taking hold, stay on top of your morning and evening brushing and flossing routine.

Brushing Your Teeth Twice Per Day

Make sure to choose a toothbrush that will not harm your gums. By selecting a soft enough brush, you can prevent irritation and further recession of your gums. When selecting your toothpaste, go for a product with fluoride. This added protection for your enamel will help prevent cavities that can spread bacteria into your gingival tissue. By taking at least two minutes each session to brush your teeth, make sure to address the entire surface of each tooth. Gently scrub against the gumline to ensure you are removing bacteria in this sensitive area.

The Importance Of Dental Floss

Flossing each day clears debris and bacteria that gather between teeth where your toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach. This must be done once per day to help you fully protect your gums. By pulling the string of your floss against the surface of each side of your tooth, you can scrape deposits effectively. Do not simply insert your floss up and down the gap between your teeth.

Speak With Your Encinitas/San Diego, CA Periodontist About Preventing Poor Oral Health

The habits you practice each day are your first line of defense in maintaining a healthy smile from disease! If you would like to learn more about improving oral hygiene, call Dr. Kania’s office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.