Oral health includes more than just your pearly whites. It also involves the soft tissues of your mouth, particularly your gums. While they are not often thought of, if they become irritated, they immediately get your attention! Sore gums make it hard to eat and drink, as well as just feel overall uncomfortable throughout the day. Read on to learn four of the most common ways you may be causing irritation to your gums and how your dentist can help.
#1. Brushing Too Hard
When cleaning your teeth, you may think the more pressure, the better. However, this is not the case. As a matter of fact, aggressive brushing not only bothers your gums but can lead to severe infections. The best way to take care of your pearly whites is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush so your teeth can be gently cleaned. Be sure to use short, precise strokes so each tooth is tended to.
#2. Not Flossing Correctly
Flossing is an essential part of an oral health routine. By cleaning between your teeth, you are keeping them free from the buildup of plaque and food debris. However, this is a proper technique. If you go back and forth with your floss too vigorously, you can damage your gums and even cause them to bleed. By gently pressing down against the sides of your teeth, as well as deep near the gum line, you will protect your teeth from decay and keep your gums in good condition.
#3. Over-the-Counter Whitening Treatments
A bright smile exudes confidence and vitality. That’s why there are so many products on the market promising whiter teeth. Unfortunately, many of them contain peroxide-based agents, which can irritate the gums. Since many whitening strips and trays don’t fit the teeth perfectly, the soft tissues of your mouth can come into contact with these irritants. If you do want a more vibrant smile, it’s best to get a professional whitening treatment from your dentist.
#4. Eating Certain Foods
Do you like to munch on potato chips? Or maybe hard candies? Many people enjoy a crunchy snack; however, they aren’t always kind to your gums. They can scrape against them as you chew, resulting in inflammation and sores. As an alternative, reach for healthier crunchy foods with less roughness on your gums, such as vegetables with dip. They will keep your gums in great shape as well as your physical health!
How Can Your Dentist Help?
If your gums have been irritated or sore for over a few days, it’s best to go visit your dentist. They can give you a thorough examination and get to the underlying cause. While they could be suffering due to one of the reasons listed above, there may be another culprit: gum disease. This inflammation of the soft tissues of your mouth can cause irritation, bleeding, and even eventually tooth loss. By getting it treated in the early stages, your smile can return to being comfortable and beautiful!
About the Practice
Jupiter Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry is eager to help you keep your smile comfortable, healthy, and beautiful! Their two dental experts offer a wide range of services, including preventive care with periodontal therapy to keep your gums in top condition. With the use of customized plans and advanced dental technology, they can get to the underlying cause of your oral health issues. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (561) 559-8942.