How Should You Care for Your Gums?

October 07, 2022
Fort Pierce Family Dentist cleaning patient's teeth

According to a Fort Pierce family dentist, your gums are just as important as your teeth. They deserve the same amount of TLC your pearly whites are getting. How exactly do you care for your gums?  

Keep in mind that the money you’ve spent achieving a perfect smile is all for nothing if you succumb to gum disease. Your gum tissues keep your teeth in place, so when they get compromised, your teeth could fall off. It’s essential to be thorough in your oral care routine to protect your teeth and gums.  

couple flossing after following their Fort Pierce Family Dentist instructions

How Do You Keep Your Gums Healthy? 

Floss Once Daily 

You only need to floss once a day. Dentists recommend flossing at night before bed to remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris hiding between your teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) isn’t strict about the timing as long as you do it.  

Professional Teeth Cleanings

When plaque isn’t effectively removed after 48 hours, it will turn into tartar. Tartar is the primary culprit for all oral health problems, including gum disease. Brushing and flossing cannot get rid of tartar; only professional teeth cleanings do.  

Ideally, you should visit your dentist at least once every six months for an oral examination and routine teeth cleaning. Oral exams allow your dentist to assess your gums and detect signs of gum disease. Early detection means early treatment, thereby preventing disease progression 

Fort Pierce Family Dentist performing oral exam on female patient

See a Fort Pierce Family Dentist for a Consultation 

Now is the best time to visit if you haven’t seen your dentist in a while. Have your teeth and gums checked to maintain optimum oral health.  

At Ricard Family Dentistry, we have experienced dentists trained to provide superior quality periodontal treatment to all patients. We can help you with preventative care as well as help you restore your gums until they are healthy again! Contact us today for an appointment.