We all have some idea of what healthy teeth look like. A white sparkling mouth full of nice straight teeth is a positive sign. But for those teeth to be truly healthy, they must be supported by a good set of gums.
So how can we tell if our gums are healthy? This article will offer some valuable insight.
Healthy Gums vs. Unhealthy Gums
Healthy gums will be firm and pink. Sings of unhealthy gums include the following:
· Redness
· Swelling
· Bleeding when you brush or floss
· Recession
Bleeding, redness and swelling could be a sign of gingivitis (gum disease) while recession can be a symptom of periodontitis. If periodontitis gets to an advanced state, the teeth will start falling out.
What Causes Unhealthy Gums?
There are several factors that can contribute to unhealthy gums like:
· Smoking
· Poor nutrition
· Poor dental hygiene
· Certain medications that can cause dry mouth and lead to gum disease
Remember, healthy gums don’t just contribute to dental health, they contribute to overall health. Studies show that both periodontitis and gingivitis can lead to heart conditions. Periodontitis may also be linked to diabetes.
Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?
Fortunately, there are treatments that can get rid of gum disease in its early stages. Here are some that are used by dentists to restore gum health.
· Root scaling and planning: This procedure removes plaque and tartar that’s been embedded in the gum line.
· Gingivectomy: This is the removal of diseased gum tissue as well as the pockets between the teeth where bacteria tend to grow.
· Extraction: This involves removing teeth that are badly damaged or decayed.
· Flap Surgery: Surgeons clean the roots of the teeth and repair damage to the bone.
How to Keep Gums Healthy
There are several things you can do to keep gums healthy including the following:
· Brush Regularly: Brushing should be performed twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a good toothpaste. Brush for at least two minutes using circular and up and down motions. You may even consider using a toothpaste recommended for cleaning gums.
· Floss: Flossing should be done at least once a day.
· Gum Stimulator: A gum stimulator has a rubber tip that cleans and stimulates gums to promote circulation and prevent gum disease.
· Regular Dental Visits: You should visit the dentist at least twice a year. They will clean your teeth and help treat issues before they get out of hand.
Mouthwash is also terrific for eliminating bacteria that can cause plaque. For best results, consider using a mouthwash formulated to keep gums healthy like Herb Pharm’s Gum Guardian.
Herb Pharm has been making high quality herb supplements since 1979. Their Gum Guardian mouthwash is formulated with Certified Organically Grown herbs individually extracted to provide a wide spectrum of therapeutic plant compounds. It is optimized to promote a healthy mouth and gums.
Your teeth may look great. But if your gums aren’t healthy, things can start to deteriorate quickly. The right treatment plan will ensure whole mouth health. What does your dental routine entail?