Healthy gums are synonymous with a healthy smile. Healthy gum tissue can prevent dental decay and even tooth loss later in life. Strong gums can also stave off heart disease and other conditions. The National Institutes of Health has concluded that the presence of gum disease “increases a person’s risk of heart disease by about 20 percent.”
Beyond health-related issues, gums also define how attractive our smile is perceived to be. A healthy smile includes pink or reddish gums that are full but not “gummy.” The presence of gum disease can cause gum tissue to inflame. Infected gums are also more prone to bleeding — certainly not the look anyone would desire.
If you prefer prevention to treatment, these easy tips can ensure that you enjoy a lifetime of healthy gums. Your teeth will thank you. Good Habits that Promote Gum Tissue Health Treat signs of gum disease early Early treatments are more effective, and they can prevent irreversible damage. One symptom of advanced gum disease is gum tissue recession. You should contact a qualified dentist if you have any of the following symptoms:
Swollen gums
Bleeding while brushing
Loose teeth
Persistent bad breath
Use a soft bristle brush
One leading cause of gum tissue damage is overly aggressive brushing. There should never be an extreme amount of pressure used when brushing teeth. If you use a hard bristle toothbrush, try replacing it with a soft bristle brush ASAP. Gentle, circular motion brush strokes are all that is needed to remove plaque and tartar.
Schedule annual dental exams and cleanings
Prominent dental organizations recommend twice-a-year cleanings for a reason. Periodontitis is preventable. Exams can also allow you to benefit from early detection and treatment. If you feel that you do not have time for annual cleanings, consider the complications that can arise from advanced gum disease:
Gum tissue recession
Gum grafts
Exposed tooth roots
Decay
Tooth loss
Elevated risk of heart disease
Even if you have fallen behind on your exams and cleanings, it is never too late to begin catching up on your oral healthcare treatments.
Consider orthodontics
Straight teeth are easier to clean and floss. If you have persistent bouts of gum disease, consider undergoing orthodontic treatments like Invisalign or traditional metal braces.
Floss
Ideally, every adult in the United States would brush, floss, and use mouthwash daily. Flossing is uniquely suited to remove food debris and bacteria that becomes trapped between teeth. If you have a hard time remembering to floss, try using an interdental brush instead.
Eat a plant-based diet
Plants offer little food for bacteria, which feed off sugar and starches. By cutting down on bread, desserts, and sugary drinks, your mouth will be less acidic. Individuals who eat a largely plant-based diet are less likely to form cavities or develop gum disease.
Contact a Denver, CO Dentist Who Cares About Your Gums
By following this blog, you have shown that you take your gum tissue health seriously. Why not take the next step by contacting a dentist who can treat gum disease or other dental problems effectively and with care. Contact Metropolitan Dental Care’s Denver, CO, or Lone Tree, CO office immediately at 303.534.2626.
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