February isn’t just about heart-shaped candy and roses. It’s also American Heart Month. It’s the perfect time to show your gums some care and attention. Maintaining healthy gums keeps harmful bacteria out of your bloodstream, and as a result, keeps your heart in good condition.

Plus, healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile. They hold your teeth in place, protect your jawbone, and play a major role in preventing long-term dental problems. 

Now’s the perfect time to give your gums the care and attention they deserve. Here are three simple ways to show your gums a little extra love this month, and every month after.

1. Pay Attention to the Signs

Your gums are pretty good at telling you when they’re not happy. You just have to know what to look for. A little pink in the sink after brushing or occasional puffiness might not seem like a big deal, but these are often early signs of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease.

What to watch for:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath that won’t go away
  • Receding gumlines or teeth that appear “longer”

These symptoms don’t always cause pain, so they’re easy to ignore. But catching inflammation early gives you a much better chance of reversing it with simple care, before it turns into a more serious issue like periodontitis.

2. Upgrade Your Daily Routine

Brushing is essential, but it’s only part of the story. Plaque and bacteria love to hide along and just under the gumline, where toothbrush bristles can’t always reach. That’s why flossing (yes, daily!) is non-negotiable if you want healthy gums.

Gum-loving habits to adopt:

  • Floss once a day, gently sliding below the gumline without snapping
  • Brush twice daily using soft bristles and gentle pressure near the gums
  • Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist
  • Consider using a water flosser for extra cleaning

Even just one or two small upgrades to your routine can significantly improve gum health over time. If your gums have been irritated or bleeding, staying consistent for even a week can start to make a visible difference.

3. See Your Dentist (and Hygienist!) Regularly

No matter how great your at-home routine is, your dental team plays a critical role in keeping your gums healthy. Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing and flossing simply can’t reach and they give your dentist a chance to spot potential problems early.

How this helps your gums:

  • Removes buildup that causes irritation and inflammation
  • Detects early gum disease before it becomes advanced
  • Gives you tailored advice based on your oral health and risk factors

If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, now’s a great time to schedule a cleaning. Think of it as a wellness check-in for your gums, kind of like a spa day for your smile.

Gum health doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but it’s essential to keeping your smile healthy, comfortable, and confident for the long run. With a few daily habits and some professional support, you can prevent gum disease and keep your mouth in great shape.

Ready to give your gums a little love? Book your next dental cleaning or gum health check with our team. We’ll help you care for the foundation of your smile and keep it strong for years to come.

Call The Gentle Art of Dentistry at 936-247-9219 for an appointment in Houston, TX. You can also schedule online.