Gum Care for Teens & Tweens: Protect Your Gums Now for a Healthy Smile Later
You’re on your way to a straight, picture-perfect smile with your braces, but there’s something just as important as straight teeth—your gums! September is Gum Care Month, the perfect time to make sure you’re giving your gums the attention they deserve. Healthy gums are the foundation of a great smile, so let’s dive into why you should care about them now and how to keep them in top shape.
Why Gum Health Matters (Especially for Braces-Wearers): When you think about your smile, you probably focus on your teeth. But did you know that your gums are just as important? Gums hold your teeth in place and protect them from bacteria. If you don’t take care of your gums, they can become inflamed, leading to gingivitis—the early stage of gum disease. And if you let it slide, it can turn into something worse, like periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and other health problems. Not cool, right?
When you have braces, it’s even more important to take care of your gums. Braces make it easier for food and plaque to get trapped around your teeth and gums. If you don’t clean your teeth and gums well, it can lead to swollen, bleeding gums that are not only uncomfortable but also unhealthy.
Signs Your Gums Need Attention: Keep an eye out for these signs that your gums might be in trouble:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Gums pulling away from your teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to step up your oral hygiene game and maybe even check in with your orthodontist or dentist.
How to Keep Your Gums Healthy: Taking care of your gums isn’t hard—it just takes a little effort every day. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush Like a Pro: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you angle your brush to clean around your braces and along your gumline.
- Floss, Even with Braces: Flossing might seem tricky with braces, but it’s a must! Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to get between your teeth and under the gumline. You can also try a water flosser, which is super effective and easy to use.
- Visit Your Orthodontist and Dentist Regularly: Keep up with your appointments, and don’t skip your dental checkups. Your dentist and orthodontist can spot any gum problems early and help you fix them.
- Watch What You Eat: A healthy diet helps your gums, too! Eat plenty of fruits and veggies, and go easy on sugary snacks and drinks that can cause plaque buildup.
Why It All Matters: Taking care of your gums now isn’t just about keeping your braces clean—it’s about setting yourself up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Gum disease can start early, but by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid problems down the road. Plus, having healthy gums will make your smile look even better when the braces come off!
You’re already doing the hard work to get a straight smile, so don’t forget about your gums! Healthy gums are the key to a healthy smile—both now and in the future. This Gum Care Month, make a commitment to your gum health and keep that smile shining bright. You’ve got this!
