At Haney Orthodontics, we make it our goal to provide all of our patients with the highest quality of orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign and braces, in Marin County so that they can have straighter and healthier smiles. When it comes to a healthy smile, it’s not simply about the teeth though – it’s about the gums as well. If your gums aren’t healthy, you may suffer from swollen, receding, or bleeding gums and – worse yet – your teeth may become loose or even fall out. As your trusted Marin County orthodontist, we’d like to take the time to give you a few tips on how to improve your gum health.
Improve Your Brushing Technique
The first step in improving your gum health is to change up your brushing technique. Proper brushing is essential to healthy gums. You’ll want to:
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gum line when you brush.
- Use short, gentle strokes to brush both the front and back of your teeth and gums.
- Brush your tongue afterward to keep your mouth fresh and healthy.
Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
Also, when you brush, make sure that you use a fluoride toothpaste. Toothpaste with fluoride in it will help reduce gingivitis, freshen your breath, and boost the health of your gums. While the flavor and type of fluoride toothpaste is completely up to you, you’ll want to pick one that has the ADA seal of acceptance on it.
Remember to Floss
Flossing is helpful because it will be able to reach areas that your toothbrush can’t. It can remove food particles and plaque that get stuck between your teeth. When plaque is ignored, it can turn into tartar, a thick deposit that only a dentist will be able to remove. A buildup of tartar can lead to gingivitis or periodontitis – a severe gum disease that can even cause bone or tooth loss. By flossing daily, you’ll be able to keep your gums healthy.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
By getting a dental check-up twice a year, your dentist will be able to detect any early gum disease symptoms. When gum disease is spotted at a less severe stage, it’s more likely to be treated effectively. Your dentist will also provide a professional cleaning that will remove tartar and plaque that have accumulated in your mouth.
Contact Your Marin County Orthodontist Today!
If you’re located in or nearby Marin County and you’re interested in braces or any of our orthodontic treatments, please feel free to give us a call at (415) 453-7880. Alternatively, you can fill out our online appointment request form to schedule a visit at our San Anselmo orthodontic office. We look forward to hearing from you!
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