Unfortunately, very few people consider gums a crucial part of oral health. Many will go to various lengths to protect their teeth from infections and damage, but not so much their gums. At Laurelhurst Dentistry, we have found that many of our patients begin to notice the essence of gum health when they have an infection that needs treatment.
What Does Gum Health Comprise?
Gum health revolves around keeping your gums free from bacterial infection. You are only able to care for your gums when you understand that they are a crucial component of your oral cavity. Some of the ways that your gums contribute to good oral health are:
- Supporting and stabilizing teeth – your teeth are secured in the jawbone but supported by the gums.
- Covering the jawbone
- Protecting tooth roots
Why Is Gum Health Important?
Dentists in Portland, OR, are not out to get your money when they stress the need to prioritize your gum health. Instead, they understand how crucial your gums are to your oral health. Some of the reasons you must cater to your gum health are:
- Your gums influence your aesthetics – a smile plays a significant role in making good first impressions. Unhealthy gums can send the wrong message, even when your teeth are white. The gums are also significant in the display of a beautiful smile.
- Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss – dental experts have established that periodontal diseases are the major causes of tooth loss. Usually, an infection in your gums spreads to your teeth, causing dental decay that leads to tooth loss. Besides, gum disease features various dental complications like receded gums that compromise teeth’ stability.
- Gum infections compromise your general health – an oral infection in your gums has the potential to cause severe health problems, including a stroke, heart disease, and diabetic complications. The bacteria in your mouth cause swelling in the gums, traveling through the bloodstream to different body parts.
- Periodontal disease has permanent complications – if you do not seek treatment to cater to your gums, you may suffer permanent problems. Periodontal Disease is only reversible in the very early stages called gingivitis. When the condition progresses and advances to periodontitis, it is irreversible. The only solutions would include treatments like oral surgeries to restore damaged gum tissues.
- Gum problems can lead to teeth problems – an infection or disease in your gums directly affects teeth. Some of the teeth problems you can experience due to problematic gums are:
- Loose teeth
- Dental decay and tooth cavities
- Abscessed teeth
- Weak and wobbly teeth
Things You Should Know About Your Gums
When you finally acknowledge that your gums are a crucial part of your oral cavity, you can take proactive measures to protect them. Otherwise, you will always be knocking on dental offices for restorative dentistry treatments for your gums and teeth. Some facts you should know about your gums and periodontal disease are:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to keep your mouth clean. Dentists emphasize flossing as it removes plaque from between teeth while targeting the areas near the gum line.
- Your food consumption impacts your gum health – whatever you consume directly affects your gum health. Some foods heighten the risk of periodontal diseases. The notorious ones are sugary and starchy foods.
- You can prevent gum infections early – you do not have to endure invasive treatment protocols like oral surgery to attain good gum health. Instead, you can employ different measures to prevent gum infections.
Tips for Protecting Your Gums
If you do not want to keep visiting your dentist with an oral infection, consider the flowing tips for protecting your gums:
- Quit smoking and other tobacco products.
- Limit your consumption of alcohol or quit taking it altogether.
- Eat healthily – including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily, using the right products and employing the right techniques.
- Floss between your teeth daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and exams. Regular teeth cleanings will complement your solid oral hygiene routine at home.