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How do I get Healthy Gums?

By Bethany Keene
Updated: Jan 22, 2024
Views: 42,774
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Healthy gums play a large part in the health of the entire mouth, and it is necessary to make sure your gums are healthy and clean as well as your teeth. One common sign of unhealthy gums or gum disease is bleeding gums; if this occurs, it may be necessary to increase your oral hygiene practices, as well as to visit your dentist. In general, the best way to get healthy gums is to maintain the health of the entire mouth.

Healthy gums begin with the foods you eat. Foods that contain sugar can stay in the mouth and create bacteria and plaque, which can lead to gum disease. Begin by cutting back on sugary foods and, if sugary foods are eaten, by brushing the teeth immediately after, or at least swishing with water. Keep in mind that sugary drinks such as soda are especially harmful to the teeth and gums.

Next, brushing the teeth is an important part of healthy gums. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid injuring the gums, and replace the toothbrush every three months. Brush gently around the teeth and up into the gumline. Though this may cause slight bleeding initially, it should soon stop with regular gentle brushing. It is generally recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and three times a day if possible. If there is no time to brush after lunch, at least rinse the mouth with water after meals.

Flossing daily is another important practice for healthy gums. Floss gently around every tooth, flossing up into the gumline and making a "C" shape with the floss around the teeth. This is an excellent way to help remove and prevent plaque. It is generally only necessary to floss once a day. Finally, using mouthwash regularly can be a great way to kill plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth and on the gums. Some people also use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the surface of the tongue.

Finally, remember to get regular cleanings at the dentist. Most dentists recommend getting a full cleaning every six months to maintain a healthy mouth. A dentist will also be able to check for warning signs of gum disease or cavities, and will be able to recommend specific practices for improvement. In most instances, getting healthy gums is a matter of common sense and good oral hygiene. If gums continue to bleed, or are especially painful, an appointment with the dentist is in order.

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Discussion Comments
By anon293127 — On Sep 24, 2012

Healthy gums are indeed most important for a healthy mouth. Of course, proper oral hygiene is required, but just brushing and flossing won’t solve the problem of bleeding and swollen gums. Studies have shown that gum diseases are usually due to deficiency of vitamin C and calcium in diet. So correcting the dietary habits is most important for healing of gums.

Our diet should include all the important vitamins, especially vitamin D and C, along with minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Such a nutrient dense diet will not only prevent gum diseases, but also heal gums. I read this valuable information in a book titled “Cure tooth decay” by Ramiel Nagel. This book will give you an easy to follow diet plan which will ensure healthy teeth and gums.

By sapphire12 — On Jan 12, 2011

Some foods can help you to have healthy gums naturally. Fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, for example, actually help clean your teeth while you chew them. Getting enough fluids, especially water, also help to reduce stains and having things stuck in your gums and teeth.

By Neilmc — On Oct 28, 2010

Effective brushing must imitate the chewing action. Nature designed our mouths for hours of heavy chewing on primitive diet every day. Any sideways action is not only useless (it cannot penetrate gaps) but generally destructive on prominent tooth and gum tissues. An accurate brush, rather than soft floppy bristles is essential.

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