The health of your gums is nothing to brush off.
Healthy gums are just as important for your overall oral health as your teeth. When thinking of how to achieve the perfect smile, most people focus on having straight, white teeth, however, but that is only one part of the equation! To get that show-stopping smile, you also need healthy gums.
You probably don’t realize how often people get a glimpse of your gums – when you talk, laugh, smile, etc. If not properly taken care of, they can become inflamed and sick, ruining that beautiful smile.
The Effects of Poor Gum Care
Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, is a fairly common problem that happens at some point in most people’s lives. The early, mild symptoms of this ailment often start as what seem to be smaller problems.
The first symptoms of Gingivitis can include:
- Gums that bleed during & after brushing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums
- Red, swollen gums
It is important NOT to ignore these mild symptoms of inflamed gums to ensure they don’t become a much larger problem. If a case of gingivitis is left untreated, it can cause the infection to spread and become periodontitis.
Periodontitis symptoms can include:
- A continuation of the previously mentioned gingivitis symptoms
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth & gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth loss
Make sure you are keeping an eye out for any of these symptoms so you can save your smile!
Be Vigilant & Protect Your Gums
While hearing these symptoms may be concerning, the good news is that, if caught early, further damage can be prevented or even reversed by simply keeping up a steady dental hygiene routine, avoiding smoking and other habits that harm your gums, and attending regular dental checkups.
Adhere to a Strong Daily Dental Hygiene Routine:
One of the best ways to keep your gums in tip top shape is to keep the big three – brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash – as part of your daily routine. By utilizing these three practices each day, morning and night, you can be sure to get rid of any bacteria and prevent gum disease.
Make sure you are brushing gently, wiggling your toothbrush in small circular motions, as brushing too hard can cause just as much damage to your gums. Flossing incorrectly can also be damaging, so make sure to floss carefully with up-and-down motions below the gumline to remove any plaque or food between your teeth.
Avoid Smoking:
Smoking makes people more susceptible to gum disease. So, steer clear of tobacco products and continue having healthy gums for years to come!
Get Regular Dental Checkups:
Checkups with Bumgardner Family Dental include a proper cleaning of your mouth to help eliminate any plaque missed when brushing at home. Our team can also notice any symptoms you might be having and start treatment to help prevent any more damage to your gums.
Put Your Gums in Good Hands
At Bumgardner Family Dental, we make it our goal to keep your family’s dental health in tip top shape!
If your gums appear to be inflamed, you feel pain when brushing, or you show any other symptoms of gum disease, contact us today at 337-896-3062 to get the treatment you need to keep your beautiful smile.
