Nearly half of American adults are experiencing some form of a gum disease, making periodontitis a growing dental issue in the U.S. People with gum disease may experience swollen and painful gums, bad breath, tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss.

To reduce the chances of developing periodontitis, you must take proper care of your mouth. Here are some good tips how to do maintain healthy gums.

CHOOSE ON A HEALTHY DIET

A healhty diet can drastically improve your oral health. Choose plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid eating too much sugar, as sweets can damage teeth and encourage the growth of bacteria.

Some foods, like apples, are great for your gums because they have such an abrasive texture. When you eat an apple, it gently removes plaque on your teeth and gum line. Eating an apple every day will not only keep the doctor away, but also the dentist.

QUIT SMOKING

You are probably well aware of the harmful effects of cigarettes on your entire body. Well, smoking is also bad for your gums. In fact, if you smoke, you are four times more likely to develop gum disease than nonsmokers. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease by lowering your body’s immune function. If you don’t have a healthy immune system, you are more likely to contract infections, including ones in your gums. Quitting smoking can lower your chances of getting diagnosed with gum disease and many other health conditions.

STAY HYDRATED

Water is a the perfect drink at all times, as it not only hydrates your entire body, but it is greatly beneficial for your skin, your teeth and your gums. Choose for pure water with no added flavors or carbonation, as many of the additives can cause tooth enamel breakdown. Water can also help by flushing away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth clean and fresh.

If you’re in an office environment all day, try to drink one glass of water every hour. If you’re active, you’ll need to drink extra water to protect your gums and stay hydrated.

BRUSH AND FLOSS PROPERLY

Burien professional dentists recommend that you brush your teeth minimum twice per day to clean your mouth from harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. It’s also a good idea to brush after meals and snacks, especially when they are sticky or sweet, like candies, for example.

Best is to use an electric toothbrush. It’s a little bit more expensive than a standard one, but it does a much better job at removing plaque underneath your gum line. Using an electric toothbrush can also prevent you from brushing your teeth too aggressively.

When brushing, don’t forget your tongue. Even if you brush your teeth and floss every day, you still might not remove all the bacteria, accumulating in your mouth. There is actually a lot of bacteria that forms on your tongue throughout the day. It’s important to clean your tongue every day with your toothbrush. Otherwise, the bacteria can transfer to your gums and cause gum disease.

WATCH OUT FOR SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE

The sooner gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat. If you notice any signs of gum disease, like red or swollen gums, or bleeding while brushing, you should pay a visit to your Burien dentist as soon as possible.

If you live or work in Burien, WA, you should consult a proven dental professional like Dr. Lee from Burien Family Dental Care. Dr. Lee would offer you a thorough examination and help you choose the best solution to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.