Tips for Preventing Gum Problems
Prevent and protect
Tenderness of the gums is caused due to the build-up of plaque. Properly controlling the cause by removing and helping to inhibit plaque build-up, and not just addressing the gum problem symptoms, will give you the best protection.
Thorough cleaning is important
Brushing your teeth twice a day, daily cleaning of all interdental spaces and rinsing will help prevent plaque build-up.
Toothpaste and mouthwash solutions which help to fight the cause of gum problems can supplement manual cleaning. Regular visits to the dentist and professional dental hygienist are also important.
How should you use dental floss?
At least once a day, ideally before going to bed. Through the use of dental floss, you are able to access the hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth that a toothbrush can't get to.
Correct length
Dental floss should have a length of nearly 50cm.
Clean your upper jaw
Wind the dental floss around your middle finger and stretch it over your thumb so you have 2 cm for cleaning.
Clean your lower jaw
Wind the dental floss around your middle finger and stretch it over your index finger, then clean your lower jaw.
The correct brushing technique
At least twice a day, in the morning and the evening. Select a toothbrush in accordance to the morphology of your gums. Ask your dentist’s advice.
Cleaning of the outer surfaces
Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gumline and sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline.
Gently brush the surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes.
Cleaning of the inner surfaces
Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
Gently brush the surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes.
Finally: Cleaning of the chewing surfaces
Gently brush the surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes
And don't forget to clean your tongue.
Regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist
Dentists and dental hygienists can identify the first signs of gum problems. The causes, such as plaque and calculus, are also detected and removed at regular dental check-ups or as part of professional dental hygiene procedure.
The professional dental hygiene procedure includes polishing of the tooth surfaces using special pastes and polishing cups. This prevents plaque from adhering so quickly.
