3 Ways to Improve Blood Flow to the Gums
By Katrina Robinson
Did you know that circulation is a big part of maintaining oral health? Improving the blood flow to the gums both increases the availability of oxygen and nutrients as well as removing waste build-up from gum tissue. But how, exactly, do you improve gum circulation? Following are three ways:
1. Using Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers
Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers are manufactured by Johnson & Johnson. They are small wooden sticks—much like toothpicks—that are less than two inches long and are used to remove plaque from between your teeth. The shape of Stim-U-Dent sticks is intended to help stimulate your gums while cleaning between your teeth. You use Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers by saturating them, either with water or your saliva, and then inserting the pointed side between your teeth, gently cleaning the area right at the gum line. Some dentists recommend using Stim-U-Dent after thoroughly brushing your teeth but before spitting out the toothpaste.
2. Using a Rubber Tip Gum Stimulator
Rubber tip gum stimulators work in the same way that Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers work. These tools are long metal or plastic devices that have a soft rubber tip on one tip. This rubber tips is what’s used to clean and stimulate your gums; it’s used in the same way that the Stim-U-Dent sticks are used. The really good news about gum stimulators is that you can purchase extra rubber tips so that you don’t have to keep buying whole gum stimulators every few months.
3. Massaging Your Gums
If you’re not crazy about sticking a Stim-U-Dent or rubber tip gum stimulator between your teeth, you can always resort to manually massaging your gums with your fingertips. With clean fingers, grasp the gum with your forefinger and thumb. Squeeze and release. Continue until you’ve massaged the entire gum line.
Now you know that improving gum circulation is a big part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Which of these three ways do you think you’ll try to improve blood flow to your gums?
Katrina Robinson is a freelance writer who covers a wide variety of subjects, from personal finance to obtaining a private student loan.