When it comes to improving your oral health, it can be easy to focus too much on caring for your teeth each day. The gums also need attention to ensure that the teeth can stay healthy. If you notice your gums are bleeding or are swollen, there are a few steps to take to reduce the risk of gum disease.

1. Eat Leafy Greens

Incorporate more leafy greens into your diet, which will not only allow you to get more fiber in your diet but can also remove bacteria due to the extra chewing that is required to break down the food. Make it a point to eat more celery, cooked, beans, and raw spinach to improve the health of your gums.

2. Increase Your Calcium Intake

Increase the amount of calcium that you’re getting in your diet, which will maintain the root of each tooth and can allow the gums to stay healthy. Consider eating more milk, cheese, and yogurt each day. Children and older adults often need higher amounts of calcium.

3. Schedule Dental Cleanings

Dental cleanings should be scheduled every six months to ensure that plaque and tartar are removed with professional tools and techniques that are used by a dental professional. The dentist can inspect for gum disease that may be present and can treat the symptoms before they escalate. Patients who suffer from gingivitis can also reverse the condition with routine cleanings that are performed throughout the year.

4. Use Mouthwash

Although flossing and brushing are integral for healthy gums each day, mouthwash is an additional product that can be used to remove plaque and tartar that accumulates between the teeth and gums. Therapeutic mouthwashes are available over the counter and can reduce gingivitis while also slowing down the process of how quickly tartar develops over time. Using mouthwash only takes a few seconds and can also allow your breath to stay fresh throughout the day while you’re away from home.

5. Use an Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are more effective than using manual brushes to remove plaque and reduce the risk of gingivitis. The brush should have soft bristles, and the head should be replaced every three to four months.

Knowing these necessary steps to take to improve the health of your gums will have a direct impact on your teeth. By adopting a few habits, you won’t have to suffer from bleeding or swollen gums each day.