Know the Signs of Healthy Gums and Gum Disease
Maintaining healthy gums benefits not only the health of your teeth but also the health of your whole body. Neglecting to take proper care of your gums may result in gum disease, the leading cause of tooth loss. Gum disease has also been linked to cardiovascular disease and respiratory infections. It can also lead to an increased risk of serious degenerative diseases. With these risks in mind, gum health should certainly not be overlooked.
Signs of Healthy Gums
To best take care of your gums, it is important to know what healthy gums look like. When examining your mouth, you want to see pink, firm gums. Your teeth should sit right against your gums with no spaces where the gums appear to be receding. Your teeth should be firmly in place and should not be loose to the touch.
Signs of Gum Disease
The first sign that should alert you is bleeding gums after brushing or flossing. In addition, your gums may feel tender, look red, or be swollen. As gum disease progresses, your gums may begin to recede, causing your teeth to appear more exposed. This, in turn, causes teeth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods or liquids. If you have any of these signs, it is time to visit your dentist.
How to Have Healthy Gums
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Go for regular cleanings
- Use antibacterial mouthwash
- Don’t smoke
- Eat foods that improve gum health
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day or after each meal to remove harmful bacteria and built-up plaque. Flossing should be done daily and removes the food and bacteria leftover after brushing to ensure that it does not harden and become tartar. Go for a dental check-up every six months so that your dentist can identify any problems in their early stages.
In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, consider adding foods to your diet that can help prevent gum disease. Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and cucumber are great for your gums. Chewing them removes plaque and releases saliva, which breaks down bacteria. Raw onions contain antibacterial properties that fight bacteria. Foods that are high in vitamin C have anti-inflammatory properties that help ward off gum disease.
A healthy diet, along with regular dental check-ups and cleanings, will help you have healthy gums and teeth. Your local dentist, such as our team here at Ultimate Smile Design in Palm Bay, Florida, is committed to your oral health. Schedule your appointment today, and we’ll help you have a healthy, beautiful smile!