GUM CARE
At Dhotrad’s Sunny Dental Clincis, we believe that, it is not all about how straight ones teeth are or how bright the smile is. One cannot forget about the gums! Even if one is cavity-free and has the pearliest teeth that does not signify immunity to gum disease. Since gum disease is usually painless, most people have no idea that anything is wrong with the gums.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance that is filled with bacteria. This can cause infections that hurt the gum and bone, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque may lead to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes the gums to become:
• Inflamed
• Tender
• Red
• Swollen
• Prone to bleeding
Fortunately, since the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place are not impacted, this damage maybe reversible.
One may develop periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, if left unattended to for long. Periodontitis impacts the bones that hold the teeth in place. Left untreated, it can ruin the gums, bones, and tissues connected to the teeth.
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. This is when the fibers and bone supporting the teeth are destroyed. It may affect ones bite and teeth may need to be extracted.
Signs that you might have Gum disease include:
• Consistently bad taste or breath
• Separating or loose permanent teeth
• Gums that easily bleed
• Gums that are swollen, red, or tender
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
Gum disease is preventable. Here are a few ways you can help keep your gums healthy.
1. Floss
Floss at least once a day. This helps remove the plaque and food that is beyond your toothbrush’s reach.
2. Regular dental checkup and cleaning
A dentist can detect early gum disease symptoms if one visits on a regular basis. That way symptoms can be treated before they become more serious. A professional scaling is the only way to remove tartar. It can also get rid of any plaque that maybe missed when brushing or flossing. If one has gingivitis, brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings can help reverse it.
3. Quit smoking
Yet another reason for smokers to quit: Smoking is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. According to trusted sources, smoking weakens the immune system and it also makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. In addition, smoking makes it difficult for the gums to heal once they have been damaged.
4. Brush twice a day
Brush teeth after every meal. This helps remove the food and plaque trapped between the teeth and gums. Scrub the tongue too, since it can harbor bacteria. Ensure the toothbrush has soft bristles and fit in the mouth comfortably.
Replace the toothbrush once every three months or immediately following a period of sickness, since germs and bacteria from sickness are harboured in the moist environment for 72 hours.
5. Fluoride toothpaste for adults
As for toothpaste, store shelves are lined with brands that claim to reduce gingivitis, freshen up breath, and whiten teeth. Consult the dentist to know which one is best for healthy gums. Make sure to choose toothpaste that contains fluoride The flavor and color is up to the choice of an individual.
6. Therapeutic mouthwash
Usually available over the counter, therapeutic mouthwashes can help reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, reduce the speed that tarter develops, or a combination of these benefits. A rinse helps remove food particles and debris from the mouth, though it is not a substitute for flossing or brushing.