Love your gums! Good oral hygiene is not just about caring for your teeth…it’s about caring your entire mouth, especially your gums! February is Gum Disease Awareness Month and close to 50% of adults have some form of gum disease. Warning signs include bad breath, bleeding gums, and sensitive teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about the health of your gums, come in to see Dr. Brunacini or Dr. Karagiorgos for a check up. We can help assess the health of your gums, go over a home care routine that will help, and, if needed, put together a treatment plan for you. In the meantime, to encourage you to care for your gums as you care for your teeth, here are a few ways you can give your gums a valentine this month and every month!
You + Floss = True Love for Your Gums
The number one thing you can do to prevent gum disease is floss daily. Flossing cleans bacteria and food debris from the nooks and crannies between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Whether you floss in the morning, at night, or after lunch doesn’t matter…just do it once a day! If traditional floss is difficult for you to use, explore water flossers or floss picks like plackers. Give your gums that flossing love!
Toast Your Gums by Drinking More Water
Drinking water is great for your overall health, but it can also help keep your mouth healthy, too! Drinking a glass of water after meals helps rinse away food and bacteria, which otherwise could cause gum inflammation and cavities. Cheers to healthy gums!
Treat Your Gums to a Massage
Next time you brush, give your gums a little extra love! Using soft, circular motions massage along your gum line. Massage helps stimulate blood circulation, can reduce gum disease inflammation, and help clean between your teeth. Incorporating this extra care into your brushing routine will improve your gum health. What a great way to show your gums you care about them!
Take Your Gums on a Date…to the Dentist
Coming in for regular check ups with Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos is a great way to love your gums and also an important part of your oral health care. Did you know that gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults, and it’s completely preventable? Routine visits help us keep your mouth healthy and prevent issues, like gum disease, from developing into larger problems. At your appointment, we’ll help you find a home care routine that works for you so we can work together to keep your gums and your teeth happy and healthy. How sweet is that!
If you have questions about your oral health or need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call at 207.781.5900. We are here to provide you with the best oral health care possible! xoxo
