National Gum Care Month: 6 Tips For Healthy Gums
September is Gum Care Awareness Month, and the importance of healthy gums to your physical health cannot be overstated. While patients should prioritize gum care every month, September is a focused time to educate the general public about gum care. Learn more about the importance of gum care and six essential tips for keeping your gums healthy.
Why is gum care so important? Gums are soft tissues surrounding the root of your teeth and top of the jaw bone. Without proper care, gingivitis and periodontitis (gum disease) can develop. Statistically, gum disease and poor dental health are the leading causes of tooth loss in adults 35 years or older! However, the basics of maintaining gum health start with the basics of oral health: brushing and flossing teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly does more than just clean your teeth. This healthy habit keeps your gums healthy as well. By brushing away unwanted bacteria and plaque that can accumulate in your mouth, you can protect your gums from inflammation and gum disease.
The Importance of Healthy Gums
Research increasingly shows that gum health is important for overall health and well-being. The “mouth-body” connection is well-documented in dentistry. Keeping teeth and gums healthy helps reduce inflammation, control early signs of diabetes, and can even help people resist infections. Poor oral hygiene gradually leads to inflammation in the gums (gingivitis) and then periodontitis, if left untreated. Gum disease (periodontitis) begins when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. You usually cannot feel this build-up, so it is important to have regular checkups with your dentist. At Smiley Pearls dental clinic in Sachse, TX, our dentists provide thorough dental cleanings and examinations to ensure your teeth and gums remain free of inflammation and disease.
Symptoms of Unhealthy Gums
Regular visits and examinations at your dentist is the best way to know if your gums are healthy. If you have not been to the dentist in at least 6 months, it is important to schedule your next appointment and be aware of the symptoms of poor gum health. According to the American Dental Association, signs that you might have gum disease include:
- Consistently bad taste or breath
- Separating or loose permanent teeth
- Gums that easily bleed
- Gums that are swollen, red or tender
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
The good news is that gum disease is preventable. Continue reading for some simple steps you can take to keep your gums healthy.
6 Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums
1. Avoid Smoking
Cigarette and cigar smoking is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. Smoking weakens your immune system and also makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. A weakened immune system can make it more difficult for your gums to heal from an infection or disease.
2. Practice Healthy Brushing Habits
One of the healthy habits that you can incorporate to improve healthy gums is brushing your teeth twice a day. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will help to control bacterial plaque buildup that can accumulate. Brushing after every meal helps remove the food and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums.
3. Floss Regularly
Flossing at least once a day to remove bacterial plaque and debris left from food will help to prevent gum disease. Pro-tip: Use a new section of floss between each tooth as you move around the mouth so that you don’t put germs back in your mouth.
4. Use Mouthwash
Rinsing with mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent or remove gingivitis. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing all work together to create healthy habits and a healthy mouth.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Pack your meals with dark leafy greens, like spinach and kale. These are rich in Vitamin C which helps reduce inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect can make your gums less susceptible to swelling and infections. Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt are good for your gums as well, they contain a protein called casein, which keeps tooth enamel strong.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
During routine dental visits, your dentist at Smiley Pearls dental clinic in Sachse, TX, performs thorough examinations of both the teeth and surrounding soft tissues. This examination helps detect early signs of gum disease. The dentist can make sure that any symptoms are treated before they become more serious. If buildup occurs, professional cleaning is the only way to remove tartar from your gum line and improve the health of your gums.
If you are looking for a dentist near you who provides comprehensive dentistry for the entire family, call Smiley Pearls today. Our dentists provide periodontal care and restorative dentistry for patients suffering from gum inflammation or disease. For patients who are already suffering from tooth loss due to gum disease, schedule a consultation with our dentists today to learn about tooth replacement options. Dental implants or dentures and a comprehensive treatment plan can restore the health and function of your smile. Request an appointment online or call our office to schedule your next dental visit today.