While most of us know the importance of brushing our teeth twice a day to maintain optimal oral health, not as much focus is given to the vital role healthy gums play in not just maintaining dental hygiene but in keeping our bodies in overall good physical condition.
Healthy teeth need healthy gums to support them. Gums are part of the soft tissue lining of the mouth that surround teeth and provide a seal around them. Most importantly, healthy gums help ward off harmful bacteria and plaque. Improper gum care can lead to gum disease, or gingivitis, which has been linked to a variety of chronic conditions.
Periodontal disease is more commonly known as gum disease – a type of infection where bacteria sits under the gum tissue. If periodontal disease goes untreated, bone loss will begin to occur. Without proper care such as regularly scheduled dental visits and cleanings, gum disease will eventually lead to tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Our Top Tips for Healthy Gums:
- Brush gums twice daily: Add brushing your gums to your daily oral care routine. Optimal impact is made using a soft, circular motion.
- Floss daily: The importance of flossing cannot be overstated. Flossing removes the plaque and bacteria that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Add a mouthwash to your routine: Use a mouthwash to remove any lingering food particles left after brushing and flossing. This should be used as a compliment to your regular oral care routine, not a replacement.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Twice a year is the recommended cadence for dentist visits, and or good reason. This helps us to identify gum disease early and provide effective treatment. Professional cleanings are also a powerful deterrent against harmful plaque and bacteria, which can bring on a host of health problems.
Early detection is the best way to reverse the damage caused by gingivitis. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!