What Is So Great About Gums?
When it comes to your oral health, it’s not all about how straight your teeth are or how bright your smile is. You can’t forget about your gums!
Even if you are cavity-free and have the pearliest chompers in town, that doesn’t mean you are immune to gum disease. Since it is usually painless, most people have no idea that anything is wrong with their gums.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance that’s filled with bacteria. It can cause infections that hurt the gum and bone, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque also can cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes your gums to become:
- Inflamed,
- Tender,
- Red,
- Swollen,
- Prone to bleading.
Fortunetely, since the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place aren’t impacted, this damage is reversible.
You can also develop periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. Periodontitis impacts the bones that hold your teeth in place. Left untreated, it can ruin the gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth.
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. This is when the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed. It can impact your bite, and teeth may need to be removed.
Gum disease is preventable. Here are a few ways you can help keep your gums healthy.
Floss
Floss at least once a day. This helps remove the plaque and food that is beyond your toothbrush’s reach. It doesn’t matter when you floss. Do it at night, do it in the morning, or just do it after lunch. But just do it!
Get Regular Dental Cleanings
Your Precious Smiles dentist can detect early gum disease symptoms if you see them on a regular basis. That way symptoms can be treated before they become more serious. Professional cleaning is the only way to remove tartar. It can also get rid any plaque you missed when brushing or flossing. If you have gingivitis, brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings can help reverse it.
Stop Smoking Now
Yet another reason for smokers to stop doing is: Smoking is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. Since smoking weaknes your immune system, it also makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. Plus, smoking makes it more difficult for your gums to heal once they are been damaged.
