Gum health ensures your smile stays strong and pretty. Gum recession is a common condition in which the gum tissues pull away from the teeth as time passes, exposing the roots, sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss if left unchecked. Regardless of whether you're in Merritt, BC, you can implement preventive measures so that your gums are not afflicted by gingival gum recession.

Here are six guaranteed tips for healthy gums and preventing gum recession:

1. Softly Brush with a Soft-Bristled Brush

Most people unknowingly damage their gums by brushing too hard. Brushing too hard will wear away the enamel and lead to gum inflammation, which causes gingival gum recession in the long term. Instead, employ a soft-bristled toothbrush and circular motions to clean your teeth extensively without damaging your gums.

2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Plaque accumulation is among the key reasons for gum recession and gum disease. To keep gums healthy:

✔ Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.

✔ Floss daily to eliminate plaque between teeth.

✔ Rinse using an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent the growth of bacteria.

By maintaining these habits, you will be in a position to avoid infection that leads to gingival gum recession and other dental problems.

3. Avoid Tobacco and Excessive Drinking

Tobacco use and excessive drinking are major risk factors for gum recession. Smoking lowers your body's resistance to gum disease as it weakens your immune system. Smoking decreases blood flow, which slows the healing of damaged gum tissue. Quit smoking and drink in moderation to make sure you have a healthy smile by reducing your risk.

4. Eat a Balanced Diet for Healthy Gums

What you consume directly affects your oral health. A healthy diet with enough vitamins and minerals keeps gums healthy and resistant. Have:

✔ Vitamin C foods (strawberries, oranges, bell peppers) to aid in restoring gums.

✔ Calcium foods (dairy foods, leafy greens) to build bones and teeth.

✔ Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds) to reduce gum inflammation.

Avoid sugary foods and acidic drinks that encourage plaque build-up and weakening of gums.

5. Protect Your Gums with a Mouthguard

When you grind your teeth during sleep (bruxism), you will be putting your gums and teeth to unnecessary pressure, which will lead to gingival gum recession. Sleeping with a specially prepared mouthguard will prevent such damage and provide your gums with much-needed protection from unwarranted effort.

Similarly, when you engage in contact sports, a mouthguard can avoid tooth trauma that has the potential to cause recession of the gums.

6. Go See Your Dentist Often

Regular dental checkups assist in the early detection and prevention of gum recession. Professional cleaning of teeth assists in the removal of plaque and tartar accumulation, which cannot be done through tooth brushing. Your dentist will examine your gums for health and, if necessary, advise you to undergo procedures such as deep cleaning or gum grafting.

Final Thoughts

Gum recession may be avoided by good oral habits, healthy practice, and periodic visits to a dentist. Whether you live somewhere in Merritt, or not, these healthy tips can help you maintain healthy gums for the next many years. Take good care of your smile today by embracing these simple and effective habits.