If you’ve ever had to deal with bleeding gums, you know how uncomfortable it can be. The best way to prevent bleeding gums is to brush and floss regularly, but there are also other steps you can take.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, soft bristles are better for your gums. Most people don’t think much about the bristle hardness of their toothbrush until they start bleeding while brushing their teeth. Brushing with a hard bristle can cause damage to the gums. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will not only stop this problem but also help prevent gum disease.
If you still use a manual toothbrush, switch to an electric toothbrush.
If you’re still brushing your teeth with a manual toothbrush, it’s time to switch to an electric one. Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and preventing gum disease; they’re more comfortable to use; they’re more efficient at removing food particles from between teeth, the bristles are softer, and they are more effective at preventing damage to the gums and gum disease.
Floss regularly to clean out the pockets between your teeth and gums.
Flossing is important for several reasons. It helps you clean out the pockets between your teeth and gums, which is a prime location for plaque to build up and cause gum disease. Left untreated, you will find that your gums will bleed more when you brush your teeth. The worse your oral health gets, the more likely it is that you’ll have tooth decay, bad breath (which can be embarrassing), cavities, and even gum recession or tooth loss later in life.
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
You should replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. The bristles on your toothbrush will wear down over time, and if you don’t replace them regularly, you may be damaging the enamel on your teeth as well.
How do you know when a toothbrush needs replacing? When the bristles begin to look frayed or worn down, or when they start to appear flat instead of rounded at their tips (like they should).
Make sure your water is fluorinated.
If you have to drink tap water, make sure it’s fluorinated. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and can be found in toothpaste, mouthwash, and drinking water. Fluoride is safe to consume at recommended levels.
See a dentist twice per year.
If you have bleeding gums, it’s best to see a dentist twice per year. A dentist can check for gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay. They can also check for dental implants and orthodontic issues. Your dentist can also perform teeth whitening treatments on your teeth if you want to make them whiter than ever before!
Regular visits to Marx Family Dental can help keep your gums healthy and teach you good brushing habits.
If you want to learn more about the best way to brush your teeth and keep your gums healthy, book your next appointment with Marx Family Dental today.