As ghosts and goblins are in the air, store shelves are filled with candy. It is vital to take measures to guard your gum health. “Spooky gums” should not be part of your Halloween costume. Here are some dental tips that will keep your gums plump and healthy.
Follow a Regular Oral Hygiene Routine
The easiest way to keep your mouth healthy is to follow a solid oral hygiene routine. It is vital to brush and floss each day. When you neglect your mouth, your gums may become inflamed and bleed like a real zombie. However, this condition is gum disease. If left untreated, bone loss is likely, which may cause teeth to become loose. When you brush and floss correctly, you remove debris that builds at the gum line.
Rinse Your Mouth
Besides brushing and flossing, it is best to rinse your mouth with an antiseptic wash. This will eliminate bacteria that lurks in the mouth and causes plaque to build up. Make sure to use a product that does not contain alcohol so that your mouth does not dry out.
Visit Your Dentist
You should schedule yearly checkups at your dentist’s office. Professional cleanings will be performed, which remove tartar and plaque that cannot be eliminated by brushing alone. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums in search of problems. Many times, he or she will use a probe to measure pockets that exist around your teeth. In a healthy mouth, these pockets will not be deep. However, if gum disease is present, pockets will be large and may harbor bacteria that damages gum tissue. If caught early, the problem may be treated without surgery.
If you do not want your gums to scare away trick-or-treaters, it is wise to take precautions that will prevent gingivitis. At the office of Lynn Monstwil, the entire staff is ready to offer dental tips that will help keep your mouth healthy during Halloween and beyond.