Gums are the soft tissue that holds your teeth in place, and keeping them healthy is just as important as caring for the teeth themselves. When plaque builds up along the gumline, gums can become red, puffy or bleed a little when you brush.
Clean gently but thoroughly
Brush softly along the gumline twice a day, angling the bristles slightly toward the gums. Clean between your teeth every day, because this is where irritation often begins. Gentle, regular cleaning works far better than occasional hard scrubbing, which can actually damage the tissue.
Watch for early signs
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. Bleeding when you brush, swelling, tenderness, or bad breath that does not go away can be early signs that your gums need more attention.
Support your gums day to day
Staying hydrated, not smoking and eating a balanced diet all help your gums stay resilient. If bleeding or soreness lasts more than a week or two, it is worth booking a check-up so a professional can take a closer look.