Taking Care of your Teeth
If you brush your teeth faithfully two to three times per day, you may feel you are doing enough to keep a healthy smile, however it is typically not enough to prevent gingivitis. Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease which if left untreated can lead to more serious forms of gum disease. Make sure you go to the dentist while you are pregnant because Gingivitis can start or get worse while pregnant.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can protect yourself from gingivitis.
Try these techniques between dental visits.
Spend more time: Spend at least 3 to 4 minutes brushing (at least 30 seconds of each section of your mouth,) both morning and night.
Research tooth paste brands: Not all toothpaste is the same. Choose one that protects against gingivitis.
Rinse, rinse, rinse: Shop for a rinse that protects against plaque and gingivitis, like Crest Pro-Health Multi-Protection Rinse.
Floss: Flossing can protect gums from weakening and receding.
New tooth brush: Replace your tooth brush every 3 to 4 months.
Taking steps towards helping to prevent gingivitis can not only help you achieve a healthier mouth, but can make your next dentist appointment a breeze. Don’t forget the kids! Teach your kids proper dental hygiene at an early age. Educate them on proper brushing and take them to the dentist regularly.
Also, if you notice any changes in your teeth always point it out to the dentist. I recently started losing the enamel on my front teeth from brushing my teeth too much. Now I have to use special tooth paste and stay away from mouth wash with alcohol in it to try to save the enamel I have left.
I wish my parents were more diligent in making sure I brushed and flossed better when I was a child, because I’m paying for it now! Not to mention, we ate a lot of candy, too!