Virtually everyone wants healthy teeth and gums, but gum disease is not as uncommon as you may think. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your gums naturally and prevent gum disease from taking hold. Below are some top dental tips to help you accomplish these goals:

To Sugar Free Gum

In addition to freshening breath, regularly chewing sugar free gum helps your mouth stay protected from bacteria that clings to tiny food particles. Chewing gum pulls these tiny particles away from the grooves and pits in your mouth, and subsequently helps to keep bacteria from thriving. Additionally, chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps the mouth remain moist and prevents gum abrasions.

Using an Alcohol Free Mouthwash

Swishing around a rinse or mouthwash, especially after brushing your teeth, offers extra antimicrobial benefits and helps to flush away any remaining food particles. However, you should steer clear of mouthwash or rinses that are alcohol-based. Even though alcohol has the ability to kill bacteria, it is harmful to gums and other soft tissues and can increase your chances of certain oral cancers.

Brush Properly

Virtually everyone knows that brushing three times a day is important, but you must make sure you are brushing properly. Experts recommend spending at least two minutes brushing your teeth in order to make sure all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.

Avoid Tobacco

Among one of the most important dental tips for your gums is avoiding tobacco. Not only are tobacco products harmful to your general health, they also significantly weaken your teeth and cause them to become brittle, which eventually leads to gum erosion. Tobacco products can lead to a host of gum diseases as well, including soft-tissue oral cancer. Finally, always see your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups, and report problems as soon as they are discovered to maintain optimum gum health.