Here are the 5 key habits our periodontist, Dr Edwin from Royce Dental Group, follows to maintain optimal gum health.
1. I will brush my teeth twice a day, spending 2 minutes per session
Brushing for just a few seconds isn’t enough — it takes at least 2 minutes to thoroughly remove plaque from all tooth surfaces.
It’s recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with the right amount of fluoride toothpaste, brushing gently along the gumline at a 45-degree angle. Avoid scrubbing hard, as this can irritate your gums or cause gum recession.
2. I will floss or clean in between my teeth once daily
Did you know that brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces? The rest are often hidden between your teeth.
Daily use of floss or interdental brushes helps remove trapped food and bacteria that can lead to bleeding gums, bad breath, and over time, gum disease.
3. I will maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent diabetes mellitus
Diabetes and gum disease are closely linked. Uncontrolled diabetes makes your gums more prone to infection, while gum disease can worsen blood sugar control.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent both conditions. You can:
- Eat a balanced diet – choose nutrient-rich foods with vitamins, calcium, fiber, and healthy fats. Choose drinks with little to no added sugar.
- Stay active – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Start with short walks (e.g., 10 minutes after dinner) and gradually increase.
- Go for your regular dental check-ups every 6 months, or more often (every 3–4 months) if recommended by your dentist.
4. I will not smoke or vape
Smoking and vaping are not only harmful to your overall health, but they are also major risk factors for gum disease and tooth loss.
Reduces blood flow to gums
Smoking and vaping cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to your gums. This limits oxygen and nutrients, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and disease.
Dry mouth
Smoking and vaping can decrease saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Without enough saliva to neutralize acids and fight bacteria, your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath increases.
Chemicals in vapor can irritate gums
The chemicals in cigarettes and vapes can irritate gums, causing redness, swelling, and inflammation. Over time, this can worsen gum disease and even contribute to tooth loss if left untreated.
5. I will not wear a tongue stud
Oral piercings, such as tongue studs, may be trendy, but they can damage your gums and teeth.
Constant contact between the metal and your teeth or gums can lead to bleeding gums, gum recession, and infection. Studies show that tongue piercings often negatively affect the surrounding teeth and gum tissue. To protect your oral health, it is strongly recommended to avoid tongue piercings.
Conclusion
Healthy gums don’t happen by chance, they are the result of consistent care and good daily oral habits. By following these 5 simple practices, you can prevent gum disease and keep your smile strong and healthy for life.
If you’re concerned about your gum health or notice symptoms such as bleeding, swelling, or bad breath, our periodontists at Royce Dental Group can assess and provide treatment.
By Dr Edwin Goh
Dental Specialist in Periodontics
BDS (National University of Singapore)
MDS (Periodontology) (Singapore)
M Perio RCS (Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, United Kingdom)
‘The eye for details and the meticulous work necessary to excel in periodontics led me to specialise in this field. Helping my patients achieve and maintain a healthy set of dentition give me much professional joy, and I hope to help even more people do so.’
