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Having cavity-free teeth doesn’t automatically mean your gums are healthy. Since gum disease often goes unnoticed due to its painless nature, you might not realize there's an issue with your gums. However, several strategies can help you maintain overall oral health.
Oral health is not solely about having straight teeth or a bright smile; it's also crucial to care for your gums. Neglecting gum health can lead to serious complications, so it’s important to pay attention to any signs of gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky, film-like substance filled with bacteria. This buildup can lead to infections that harm the gums and bones, potentially causing gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque also causes gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by:
- Inflamed gums
- Tender gums
- Red gums
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible since it doesn’t impact the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease that affects the bones supporting your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to severe damage to the gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth.
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis, where the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed. This stage can impact your bite, and teeth may need to be removed.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), signs of gum disease include:
- Consistently bad taste or breath
- Loose or separating permanent teeth
- Gums that bleed easily
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums that have receded from the teeth
Gum disease is preventable. Here are some ways to keep your gums healthy:
1. Floss Daily
Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach. According to the ADA, it doesn’t matter when you floss—just make sure to do it regularly.
2. Regular Dental Visits
Schedule professional cleanings and check-ups at least twice a year. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and treat them before they become more serious. Professional cleanings remove tartar and any plaque you might have missed during brushing or flossing. If you have gingivitis, brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings can help reverse it.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. It weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight off a gum infection and for your gums to heal once they’ve been damaged.
4. Brush Twice a Day
Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums. Don’t forget to scrub your tongue, which can harbor bacteria. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles that fits comfortably in your mouth. Electric or battery-powered toothbrushes can help reduce gingivitis and plaque more effectively than manual brushing. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray.
5. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance. This helps ensure it’s effective for maintaining healthy gums. The flavor and color are up to you.
6. Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
Therapeutic mouthwashes available over the counter can help reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, and slow the development of tartar. Look for mouthwashes with the ADA seal to ensure they are safe and effective. Remember, mouthwash is an addition to, not a substitute for, brushing and flossing.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
If gum disease develops, several treatment options are available. Non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing can clean below the gum line, while antibiotics may control bacterial infections. In more advanced cases, surgical treatments such as flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts may be necessary to restore damaged tissues.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, combined with healthy lifestyle choices, can prevent gum disease and its serious complications. If you notice any signs of gum disease, seek professional dental care promptly to maintain your oral and overall health.