Gums play a vital role in overall health, but their importance is often overlooked. While we are generally conscious about caring for and brushing our teeth, neglecting our gum health can lead to various health concerns.
Why Gum Health Matters:
-
Gums provide essential support to our teeth. Healthy gums assist in keeping our teeth securely in place and protect the sensitive roots under the gum
-
Research suggests that our gum health is linked to our overall health. Gum disease can be linked to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
-
Gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis can cause bleeding, inflammation, bad breath and, eventually tooth loss if untreated.
How to Support Gum Health:
-
Regular brushing and flossing. Brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily helps remove built-up plaque.
-
Use antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and gingivitis-causing bacteria.
-
Ensuring you have a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, helps maintain healthy gums. Reducing or avoiding sugary snacks and drinks reduces the risk of gum disease also.
-
Quit smoking. As smoking can weaken the immune system and can stunt the healing of gums when they're damaged.
-
Visit your dentist regularly. Professional check-ups and cleaning every six months allow your dental practitioner to monitor and treat early signs of gum disease.
Taking care of our gums is about more than ensuring you have a nice smile. It is important to maintain overall health and well-being. By making minor changes to our lifestyle and oral health routine, we can ensure that our gums remain healthy and strong for years to come. Remember, prevention is key. If you'd like to make an appointment to have a consultation with one of our friendly health professionals, click the link.