Keep Those Healthy Gums!

Teaching your children how to maintain healthy gums is an essential part of having a healthy smile. Here are a few tricks you can try with your kids, proven to help keep our sensitive gums happy. 
Start by tossing out that old wilting toothbrush. Dentists recommend you replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every two to three months. Think of updating your toothbrush like an oil change – putting it off leads to bigger trouble. Using the same brush outside this time frame is adding harmful bacteria to your mouth with every subsequent brushing.
The way you grip your toothbrush plays an instrumental factor in the quality of care your gums receive throughout every brushing. Dentists recommend you grip the brush at a 45 degree angle, much like you would hold a pencil. Make a conscious effort to brush in soft circular motions to get the most out of each cleaning.
Of course, the real conversation naturally must touch upon dietary habits. Consider how much sugar you consume in a day – do you think it tends to get a little out of control? Addictive sugar develops plaque which irritates develops tooth decay and irritates the gums over time. Although it’s a tough pill to swallow for anyone with a sweet tooth, limiting your sugar intake is one of the best decisions you can make for a healthier mouth and life.
Finally, using an approved mouthwash can help remove bacteria you can’t see. Hard to reach bacteria can be especially brutal on our gums, making regular rinsing an important part of your routine. Consider an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid drying out your mouth and leaving it more vulnerable to bacteria.