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Maintaining optimal gum health is essential for preventing a host of dental issues, including bad breath, tooth loss, and gum disease. These conditions are not only uncomfortable but can also lead to more serious health problems like cardiovascular disease.
With the right oral hygiene and products, you can keep your gums healthy and your smile bright. We are committed to helping you achieve the best possible oral health. That’s why we’ve put together this guide highlighting our top 5 product recommendations to keep your gums healthy.
1. Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are far superior at removing plaque and food particles from your teeth and gums compared to manual brushing. The oscillating or rotating heads of electric toothbrushes can reach areas that are difficult to access with a manual brush, helping to prevent plaque build-up, the primary cause of periodontal disease.
How it works: Electric toothbrushes use rapid bristle movement to break up plaque and sweep it away, leaving your teeth and gums feeling incredibly clean.
Advantages:
- More effective plaque removal than manual toothbrushes
- Improved gum health and reduced risk of gum disease
- Easier to use for people with limited dexterity
How to use:
- Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to your electric toothbrush head.
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
- Gently move the brush from tooth to tooth, allowing the brush to do the work.
- Brush for two minutes, ensuring you clean all surfaces of your teeth.
2. Water Flosser
Though brushing is essential, it can’t always reach the tight spaces between your teeth and along the gumline. This is where a water flosser comes in. Water flossers use a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque from those hard-to-reach areas, promoting healthier gums.
How it works: The pulsating water dislodges debris and stimulates blood flow to your gums, improving their overall health.
Advantages:
- Reaches areas that traditional floss can’t
- Gentle on gums and sensitive teeth
- Effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis
How to use:
- Fill the water flosser reservoir with lukewarm water.
- Lean over the sink and place the tip of the flosser in your mouth.
- Turn on the flosser and direct the stream of water along your gumline, pausing briefly between each tooth.
3. Floss
Flossing with string floss or a water flosser is a non-negotiable part of any oral care routine. It is the ONLY way to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Regular flossing helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
How it works: Floss physically removes plaque and debris, disrupting the environment where harmful bacteria thrive.
Advantages:
- Prevents cavities and gum disease
- Freshens breath
- Inexpensive and readily available
How to use:
- Take a piece of floss about 18 inches long and wrap it around your middle fingers.
- Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it around the base of each tooth.
- Use a gentle up-and-down motion to clean the sides of each tooth.
4. Proxy Brushes
If you have wider spaces between your teeth due to gum recession or orthodontic appliances, proxy brushes are an excellent choice. These small, interdental brushes can effectively clean areas that are too large for regular floss.
How it works: The bristles of proxy brushes dislodge plaque and debris, reaching areas that other tools may miss.
Advantages:
- Ideal for cleaning around dental implants, bridges, and braces
- Effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis
- Easy to use and available in various sizes
How to use:
- Choose a proxy brush size that fits comfortably between your teeth.
- Insert the brush gently between your teeth and move it back and forth to clean.
5. Xylitol
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in many fruits and vegetables. It’s a popular sugar substitute in sugar-free gum and candy because it doesn’t contribute to tooth decay.
In fact, this active ingredient has been shown to have antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
How it works: Xylitol inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and promotes the remineralization of tooth enamel.
Advantages:
- Reduces the risk of cavities
- Increases saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids
- Safe for people with diabetes
How to use:
- Chew sugar-free gum or mints containing Xylitol after meals and snacks.
Morris Dental Solutions Your Trusted Buffalo Grove Dentist
We want to help you achieve optimal gum health. Our team of dental professionals and hygienists can provide personalized recommendations for your unique oral care needs.
In addition to using the best products for gum health, regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for maintaining excellent dental health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier smile!
If you are searching for ‘dental cleaning near me’ or ‘dentist in Buffalo Grove, IL’ we can help! Call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online inquiry form.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are various types of floss available, including waxed, unwaxed, and dental tape. The best type for you depends on your personal preference and the spacing between your teeth. If you have tight spaces, waxed floss might be easier to slide between your teeth.
It’s recommended to replace your electric toothbrush head every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. Worn-out bristles are less effective at removing plaque and can irritate your gums.
Xylitol is generally safe for most people, including children and pregnant women. However, some people may experience mild digestive side effects like gas or bloating when consuming large amounts of Xylitol.
