Thorough oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease.
Your regular toothbrush only cleans the inside, outside and biting surfaces of the tooth. Don't forget to clean the surfaces between the teeth, where bacteria can multiply if left undisturbed. Even effective brushing only removes about 60% of the plaque in your mouth, the rest is found between your teeth! There are several ways of cleaning between your teeth, depending on the size of your gaps and what you prefer yourself.
Healthy gums are pale, pink and firm - and do not bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth. Red, swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, loss of bone around the tooth. Around 40% of adults suffer from periodontitis – often without knowing it. Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop slowly and often without pain. The sooner the diseases are diagnosed and treated, the better.
You can do a lot yourself to prevent and reverse periodontal disease through proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and don't forget to also clean between your teeth once per day. A special toothbrush for cleaning hard-to-reach areas may also be needed. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist for advice and instruction.
