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September is National Gum Care month, and at Simply Smiles, we believe healthy gums are truly something to celebrate! In our office, every day is gum care day. Healthy gums are not only important for the health of your teeth and mouth, but also for the overall health of your body. Periodontal, or gum, disease can be connected to heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation that can lead to arthritis.
Gum disease begins when plaque builds up along the gum line. Because so many people neglect their gums, bacteria grows unnoticed and can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease where gums may be puffy or red in response to the presence of harmful bacteria. Many people live with the early stages of gingivitis and don’t even realize it.
The American Academy of Periodontology reports that half of Americans aged 30 and older have periodontitis, which is the advanced form of periodontal disease. This inflammatory disease affects the soft and hard structures that support your teeth, and could lead to the loss of your teeth and other complications. Here are some warning signs associated with advanced gum disease to look out for:
- Consistent bad breath or bad taste in mouth
- Painful chewing
- Gums that are swollen or red
- Receding gums
- Bleeding gums
- Separating or loose teeth
While these symptoms may sound scary and painful, gum disease is easily preventable and often reversible if caught early and if you follow an excellent dental care regimen. Here are some ways you can keep your gums healthy:
- Brush and floss twice a day.
- Try to brush your teeth after every meal to remove any food that can get stuck in your teeth, just don’t brush too hard or you could damage your enamel. Brush your tongue as well as bacteria can grow there. Electric toothbrushes are more effective at blasting any food remnants away, so consider purchasing an electric toothbrush. Flossing at least once a day will help remove any food that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Use a therapeutic mouthwash.
- ADA approved mouthwashes have many benefits, such as reducing plaque, reducing tartar buildup, and preventing gingivitis. A rinse also helps remove food and debris from your mouth.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Fluoride in toothpaste really helps keep your mouth healthy, so always opt for a toothpaste that contains this ingredient. Look for the ADA seal of acceptance on your toothpaste to make sure you are using a high-quality product.
- Quit smoking.
- Smoking has been linked with the onset of gum disease. Your immune system is weakened when you smoke, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. Smoking also hinders your gums from healing once they’ve been damaged.
- Go get regular dental check-ups.
- Often, early gingivitis is painless and difficult to detect. The best way to catch gum disease early is to see your dentist every six months. A professional cleaning is the only way to remove tartar and any excessive plaque buildup. Our knowledgeable staff at Simply Smiles will be able to detect any early symptoms of gum disease before it gets more serious, and we can help you develop a home care strategy to reverse it.
Gums are the unsung heroes that help form our smiles, and we hope you will take a moment this month to appreciate their vital role in your oral health. They are integral to the structure and health of your mouth. If you feel like you may be experiencing symptoms of gum disease, please call our office today to schedule an appointment. We would love to educate you on proper care techniques and on how amazing our gums really are!
Sources:
https://www.fidleronthetooth.com/blog/seattle-dentist-gum-bleeding-2/
https://www.perio.org/newsroom/periodontal-disease-fact-sheet
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/ways-to-keep-gums-healthy