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Regardless of your age, good oral hygiene is critical for good overall health. Brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental checkups should be established as soon as possible for everyone in your household. When it comes to oral health, the gums are often neglected. Your gumline is critical to your oral health and the integrity of your teeth.

Here are some tips for people of all ages to maintain beautiful, healthy smiles by taking care of the gums.

Babies and Toddlers

Teething usually happens between the ages of 3 and 9 months. A child’s first dental visit should occur between 6 months, after the appearance of their first tooth, and no later than their first birthday. If your baby is having a tough time teething or their gums are red, swollen, or otherwise abnormal, visit a dentist as soon as you can.

It’s crucial to keep a look out for potential oral health issues in babies. Thumb sucking is perfectly normal and natural in young children, but make sure it doesn’t cause bite or teeth alignment issues. Your dentist can point out if this is an issue.

Adolescents

Between the ages of 4 and 12, children will lose many baby teeth and grow new ones. Their gums are a very important part of this process. Continue to encourage good oral hygiene habits and arrange regular dental checkups. More importantly, teach appropriate flossing and brushing with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes at a time. Flossing is an integral part of taking care of the gums. Always talk to your dentist about any concerns you have, especially about crooked teeth, mouth guards, and cavities.

Teenagers

Cavities aren’t only for children; they can affect anyone at any age. You put yourself at risk for dental decay and gum disease if you consume sugary meals, soft drinks, juice, or energy drinks. Teenagers should take care of their teeth by eating healthily and practicing proper hygiene.

The bottom line for a healthy smile is:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for two minutes each time
• Floss between your teeth everyday
• Avoid sugary and starchy snacks
• When you’re active, wear a mouthguard
• Don’t smoke
• Don’t pierce your lips or any area of your mouth
• See your dentist regularly for checkups

Common issues among teenagers are crooked teeth and cavities. For crooked teeth, braces are an excellent solution. A dentist can talk about different braces options and get your child’s teeth looking picture perfect in no time. Cavities are detrimental to tooth health. If not taken care of, the cavity can go all the way down to the gums and nerves. Instill good dental habits in your child by seeing a dentist regularly and addressing cavities early on. The best thing you can do for your child is to teach them the importance of dental hygiene and care.

Adults

Adults often ignore dental issues, dismissing them as menial problems compared to other aspects of health. Cavities, infection, and tooth loss can all result from neglected teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the most effective strategy to prevent these problems and keep teeth and gums healthy. Cut down on alcohol intake, especially wine, and don’t smoke. These habits can be detrimental to your oral health.

A common issue among adults is gum disease. Not brushing and flossing correctly can lead to receding gums and issues underneath the gumline, where it can continue to get worse without you even being aware. As such, it is critical to see a dentist on a regular basis. Your dentist can catch such issues early on and fix them before complications arise.

Another common problem among adults is crooked, missing, or misaligned teeth. Cosmetic dentistry is designed to give you the perfect smile, regardless of your age. Talk to a dentist if you want a picture perfect smile. There are many treatment options available for every budget.

Adults Over 60

Older adults have different oral health needs than other age groups. They may have missing teeth that are causing issues with their speech, bite, and comfort. As such, people in this age group often require reconstructive and cosmetic dentistry. Almost all treatment options require healthy gums. This is why it is so important to take care of them. From dentures and dental bridges to dental implants and veneers, there are a variety of dental solutions for less than perfect teeth. Talk to a dentist about your options today.

Experienced Dentist in Plantation, Florida

Dr. Ernie Soto is a reconstructive dentist with a wealth of experience treating patients of all ages. Whether you need a routine checkup, braces, a root canal, or cosmetic dentistry services, we’ve got you covered. Make an appointment with Dr. Soto today, and see for yourself why we’re the preferred dental office in Plantation, Florida. Call (954) 368-6264 to make an appointment, or request one online.