Your oral health involves more than just keeping your teeth clean and cavity-free. Our gums are a vital aspect of our smiles as well. They support our teeth and create a barrier between bacteria and your bloodstream. If you have started to notice symptoms such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums, it could be a sign of gingivitis. Your Rochester, MN, dental team can help treat this problem and refresh your oral health. In our blog today, we’re here with a few preventive steps you can take to properly care for your gums.
Brush And Floss Twice A Day
As you may already know, you should be brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Brushing your teeth helps remove harmful bacteria from the surface of your teeth. This step can also help reduce stains on your pearly whites and avoid cavities. Don’t forget to floss as well so that any hard-to-reach spots are cleaned. Use a piece of floss in a c-shape to cup between each of your teeth. This step can help to remove food particles and reduce bad breath. If you have questions on what a proper oral hygiene routine should include, you can ask your dentist at your next checkup.
Plan Biannual Cleanings With Your Dentist
Along with your at-home oral hygiene routine, you should also visit your dentist twice a year for cleaning and examination. During this checkup, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned by a professional. Our advanced dental tools help to remove plaque that is stuck on the surface of your teeth. The dentist will also carefully examine your smile to look for any potential concerns such as cavities, gingivitis, and oral cancer. If you have symptoms such as halitosis, bleeding when you floss, or swollen tissue, it could be a sign of gingivitis. Your dentist can discuss a treatment plan for you to best manage your periodontal health. Biannual dental checkups are essential for patients of all ages, including children, so be sure to schedule your visit soon.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
The foods you eat and other things you consume can directly affect your gum health. You can best protect your oral health by eating a well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and not smoking cigarettes. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, improved diet and hygiene routine combined with regularly scheduled deep cleanings can help you manage your symptoms. Options such as dental implants may be available for patients who have lost their teeth due to advanced stages of the disease.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team Today
Our team at Greenview Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN, is here to help you improve your oral health. For questions or to schedule an appointment, please call (507) 281-3659.
