Effective ways to clean your gums

1.Brushing

* Place a pea-sized dab of toothpaste on the head of the toothbrush (soft bristles).

* Toothbrush should be place against the teeth at 45-degree angle to the gum line.

* Using small circular motion brush your teeth and continue with this motion cleaning one tooth at a time. Try to keep the tips of the bristles against gum line. Don't press so hard that the bristles lie flat against the teeth.. Bristles should reach into spaces between teeth.

* Gently brush your tongue. This will help remove bacteria and freshens your breath.

* Brush at least twice a day or if you can do it every after meal. Brushing removes plaque that can cause tooth decay.

* Replace toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.

2. Flossing

* Flossing helps get rid of food and plaque between the teeth. Plaque that stays between teeth, it can harder into tartar, which should be removed by a dentist. Floss once a day.

3. Eat right.

* Lessen the intake of foods that contain sugar and starches. As these foods produce the most acids in the mouth and the longer they stay in the mouth, the higher chance that they can damage the teeth.

* Avoid snacking on the following foods: cookies, candies, cakes, potato chips, dried fruits and raisins.

4.Dental check-up

* To maintain healthy teeth and gums you need to have a regular check-up and professional cleaning at least once every 6 months.

You can use other interdental cleaner aside from the dental floss and toothbrushing. Toothbrushes specifically formed with gum cleaners are also available at your local drugstores. Professional cleaning called oral prophylaxis should be sought from a dentist. In this procedure, not only the teeth will be cleaned but also the gums as well. The dentist will be further evaluated and checked if there are food debris that lodges along or inside the gum lines.

Make your gums healthy well by eating foods rich in vitamin C. These foods are strawberries, broccoli, green peppers, cantaloupe, dark green leafy vegetables, kiwis, papaya and other citrus fruits. Celery is also good because it massages gums as you eat with it. Avoid foods that are too abrasive for your teeth and gums as well. Drink plenty of water – this will help keep your gums hydrated.