1. Floss First, Floss Right
Gingivitis, infection or complications from a chronic disease can cause gum sensitivity. Whatever the source, if you've experienced bleeding gums in the past and want to prevent the condition in the future, step up your oral hygiene routine.
Start with the task that many people find tedious and try to avoid: flossing. The action of dental floss is quite different from that of a toothbrush. It gives you a way to hit those areas between teeth and below the gum line that bristles can't attack. Doctors suggest flossing before brushing, at least once a day, so that any particle_temps you dislodge can be swept away rather than left on the teeth. A longer length of floss is easier to maneuver. Floss up and down the sides of each tooth and into the gum line, until you feel resistance. Floss each tooth at various angles.
2. Brush Your Teeth Effectively
Why waste time? Make your daily routine as effective as possible. Brush for at least 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, using short up-and-down strokes as well as a side-to-side motion for the front of teeth. Use vertical strokes for the backs of teeth and horizontal for the tops. A soft-bristled brush does a fine job and is best for those with sensitive gums. There's no need to use extra pressure.
Dentists recommend brushing twice a day or, ideally, after every meal or snack. Make it a habit and stick to it, especially if you have diabetes, anemia or another condition that raises your risk of gingivitis or periodontal disease. Supplement your conscientious care by getting professional cleanings at regular intervals.
3. Make Sensible Dietary Choices
High levels of mouth bacteria can be the start of tooth and gum decay that leads to bleeding gums. Reducing the amount of bacteria by avoiding foods upon which they grow can prevent a number of periodontal problems. Try to reduce sugar and starch in your diet. Check food labels and choose fewer carbs and less high-fructose corn syrup. Phosphates are also thought to impede calcium absorption, which you need for optimum dental health, so target fizzy drinks as well. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to increase saliva production. It's the natural way to prevent bleeding gums by washing away bacteria that cause plaque.
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