September Is National Gum Care Month
We hope our patients are caring for their gums year round, but that can be difficult to do if they’ve never been told how. Nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease, so this month we’d like to discuss how to properly take care of your gums.
Gum Disease: The Warning Signs
Early gum disease is called gingivitis and is usually reversible. However, once it’s progressed to periodontitis, that’s no longer the case. We always want to catch and treat gum disease as early as possible to prevent permanent damage. If you’re suffering any of the symptoms listed below, it’s time to call us:
- Tender or swollen gums
- Gums prone to bleeding
- Shifting or loose adult teeth
- Gum tissue pulling away from your teeth
- Persistent bad taste in your mouth
How To Maintain Healthy Gums
If you would rather avoid gum disease altogether, here are five tips to keep your gums healthy and free from disease:
- Don’t Smoke, Vape, or Chew Tobacco: Our number one tip will save your gums and your life! Tobacco use is well known to cause a variety of serious health issues. You’re probably well aware of the cancer risks, but did you know that using any kind of tobacco can weaken your body’s immune system even if you don’t have cancer? The weakened immune response linked to cigarettes and chewing tobacco means your body is less able to fight off illness, including gum disease. And despite what vaping brands might have you believe, e-cigarettes and vape pens are also linked to health risks, including lowered immune responses. For the sake of your gums, and the rest of your body, chewing tobacco, cigarettes and vapes are best avoided.
- Brush Your Teeth: If you’re brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, you’re already on the right track. Just make sure you dedicate some of your brushing time to brushing your gums and tongue to fend off harmful bacteria.
- Floss!!! If you floss properly (i.e. getting the thread between the tooth and gums), you’ll remove most of the plaque that a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing as often as you brush will also help prevent sensitivity and bleeding from your gums.
- Use Mouthwash: A therapeutic mouthwash with an American Dental Association seal of approval can help to reduce plaque, slow tartar buildup, and fight gum disease.
- Get Checked: Your gum health is best understood through a periodontal screening. If your dentist finds an issue, they’ll be able to recommend the right treatment to restore your oral health as quickly as possible.
If you’re getting regular checkups at Smile Dental Clinics, then you’re already ahead of the game! Checkups allow us to monitor your dental health, and regular cleanings counteract damaging tartar buildup. Plus, when you’re visiting us every six months, the chances that we’ll catch the signs of gum disease early, while treatment is simpler and more effective, are very good.
At Smile Dental Clinics located in Phoenix, AZ, we are gum health experts, so be sure to give us a call or visit us online to schedule your next appointment.
