Unhealthy gums are a problem for many people, and once they appear to be that way it can be very expensive to fix. For this reason, you must recognize the importance of good oral health. This is not only for your appearance, but also for your overall well being.
People with ugly gums look bad and will be less likely to get ahead at work, making it hard to get ahead. Also, for those who are single, finding a mate will be harder. Married people, on the other hand, should be even more inspired.
They keys to good oral hygiene are many, but a few truly important ones are listed here.
Regular Brushing and Flossing
If this seems obvious, then you would be surprised at how many family dentists would disagree.
If you are not brushing, and brushing properly, when you wake up in the morning, and then again before bed, then you are allowing your mouth to fall into a state of decay. Tartar is building up, food is rotting, and germs are multiplying.
As for flossing, there are simply some things that a toothbrush will not get out. Think back to that scene of Jim Carey and Jeff Daniels getting flossed in the film “Dumb and Dumber,” and then ask yourself honestly if it’s so different from when you grace your gums with the freedom from everything stuck in there.
For proper flossing and brushing techniques, it’s a good idea to ask a hygienist at your next dental visit, or even watch a video on YouTube.
Gentle Brushing and Flossing
One thing you’ll find when it comes to guidance about how to brush and floss is that it should be done gently. Brushing that is more like deep scrubbing is not going to help your teeth so much as wear out your gum line, raising it and potentially exposing your roots.
This is a problem found at the offices of many cosmetic dentists across the country.
On flossing, it is important to floss into the gum line, but not deeply. While your personal trainer may say that pain is weakness leaving the body, dentists will tell you that pain is a signal to stop. It should not hurt to floss.
A last note on flossing: many people who have not flossed will find a spot or two where their gums bleed. This is not a sign that you’re going to lose your teeth, but one that your gums need more attention. If you floss daily, or even weekly, this bleeding will get better, and it’s because your gums are healthier.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Lastly, your diet matters. Junk food, and foods that are high in fat and cholesterol, are bad for your body when taken out of moderation.
By having a diet that is high is nutrient-rich foods not only will you feel better, but you’ll look better, and even sleep more easily. The opposite occurs when you don’t.
Healthy gums require healthy habits. These habits include seeing a dentist twice a year, brushing and flossing properly on the recommended schedule, and maintaining a good diet.
