Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in children and adults alike. Left untreated, it can cause a range of more complex dental problems

With the right care and dental routine, however, it is the most easily preventable. So here are 10 helpful dentist-recommended tips to help prevent gum disease.

10 dentist-recommended tips to prevent gum disease

1. Brush at least twice a day. This is pretty basic, but don’t underestimate what your dentist tells you. Regular and correct brushing stops the build-up of food debris and bacteria that may lead to plaque and tooth decay.
2. Brush at the gumline. The gumline is the most neglected area in brushing, as it is also the easiest to miss.
3. Use fluoride toothpaste. Flouride helps strengthen your teeth to stop tooth decay.
4. Brush your tongue as well. Don’t overlook your tongue as it has bacteria too. Give it a thorough cleaning every time you brush your teeth.

1. Make flossing a daily habit. Flossing can rid of build-up in teeth crevices that brushing can’t reach.
2. Don’t forget your mouthwash. Mouthwash can rid your mouth of food debris and bacteria left behind after brushing. So don’t forget to gargle thoroughly with it.
3. Go easy on starch and sugar. Sugar and starch are one of the most common culprits that cause tooth decay. Left in your mouth for long, it mixes with your saliva to form acid that erodes your tooth enamel.
4. Supplement with Vitamin C. Vitamin C can help avoid or minimize bleeding gums.
5. Cut back on vices. Smoking and drinking can deplete your body of nutrients vital for healthy gums and teeth.
6. See your dentist regularly. Visit your dentist every 6 months or when you notice bleeding, tender or swollen gums or other dental problems.