Simple Ways to Make Sure Your Gums Stay Healthy for the Long Haul

The health of your gums is more than just an oral care concern. Gum disease can lead to conditions like dementia, diabetes, and heart disease. 

At Greenwich Dentistry in Greenwich, Connecticut, Drs. Mark and Sean Sutton help you maintain healthy gums and teeth to protect your oral and overall health. Here, they offer a few simple, healthy habits to ensure your gums provide you with a lifetime of protection. 

The mouth’s role in your overall health

Your mouth contains lots of bacteria. These serve as teeth and gum protectors, keeping things in balance until you eat or drink something that causes some bacteria to multiply. 

This bacteria buildup can cause inflammation, triggering your body’s immune system to bring the bacteria into balance. All this activity can damage your gums, and the “bad” bacteria can infiltrate your bloodstream, putting you at higher risk of several degenerative diseases. 

Simple ways to maintain healthy gums 

The basic healthy habits below are foundational to good health, including healthy gums. 

Eat healthy foods 

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins and low in sugar can contribute to gum health. Sugars and acids can damage your tooth enamel and contribute to inflammation. When you limit these, you help your teeth and gums stay healthier. 

Don’t smoke or use tobacco products

Smoking and using tobacco products do more than stain teeth. They weaken the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight gum disease.

 Drink plenty of water 

Water keeps you hydrated and produces saliva to help neutralize harmful acids that damage your teeth and gums.

Brush and floss daily 

Your twice-daily teeth cleanings remove plaque caused by bacteria buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush gently so you don’t damage your gums. Don’t forget to floss daily, as it removes plaque from between your teeth. 

Use therapeutic mouthwash 

The American Dental Association classifies mouthwash as therapeutic or cosmetic. Therapeutic mouthwash includes fluoride, essential oils, and peroxide to reduce plaque, gingivitis, and other barriers to healthy gums and teeth. 

Schedule regular checkups

See our expert dental team every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning. Our dentists can detect and treat gum disease early and help you maintain healthy gums. 

Dental health goes beyond a great smile. Your mouth is also a window into your overall health. Taking steps now to maintain healthy gums gives you a better chance of preventing gum disease and other serious diseases over the long haul. 

To schedule your dental checkup, call Greenwich Dentistry at our Cos Cob office today. We look forward to helping you achieve healthy gums and teeth.