Many people think of beautiful, white teeth when they think about healthy smiles. However, the teeth are only one part of the smile. The gums are another essential aspect of one’s oral health. Sadly many people neglect crucial gum tissue care, leading to gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. In fact, nearly half of American adults are estimated to be struggling with some degree of gum disease. The good news is that it is possible to prevent gum disease with proper preventive dental care. It just requires a combination of great dental hygiene and professional dental checkups and cleanings.

Healthy Gums Are Essential to Oral Health, Ways You Can Care for Your Teeth and Gums

Again, while the teeth are an important and highly prized part of a smile, the gums are just as essential to an attractive and also healthy smile. To properly care for your gums’ health, it is important to both brush and floss daily. Flossing, in particular, can be beneficial for the gums, because it helps to remove food particles and bacteria that are often left behind by brushing, because the toothbrush bristles cannot reach between the teeth.

Mouthwashes can help, as well, however they should never be considered a substitute for brushing or flossing.

Of course, one of the most important things you can do for your smile is to visit the dentist regularly for professional checkups and cleanings. Most people believe that they need to visit the dentist just once or twice a year, for optimum oral health. However, may patients actually require more frequent visits in order to adequately prevent gum disease and other oral health problems.

In fact, those currently struggling with gingivitis may find they need to visit the dentist every few months for periodontal therapy, until their gums have been restored to good health.