When it comes to the health of your mouth, you might think it’s all about your teeth, but your gum health is just as important.
Your teeth might be looking bright, white, and beautiful, but that doesn’t mean that your gums are healthy and immune to gum disease. Our mouths are complex, making it difficult to tell if you are on your way towards gum disease. Let’s take a closer look at gum health and why it’s so essential to your health.
Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease develops in stages. The first stage is gingivitis, which can cause your gums to become inflamed, tender, swollen, red, and prone to bleeding. Since gingivitis does not yet affect the bone structure and tissue holding the teeth, it is reversible. By practicing good oral hygiene and regular visits to the office your gums can become healthy once more.
The second stage of gum disease is periodontitis. With periodontitis, you’ll have all the same gum problems you had when in the gingivitis stage, but the gums, bones, and tissues around your teeth will start separating. At this point, it’s essential to see a dentist for advice on how you can minimize the damage.
The third and final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. At this point, the tissue and bone structure will be destroyed by the disease. Advanced periodontitis can cause your teeth to become loose and some teeth may be permanently lost. You might also suffer from a bad taste in your mouth or bad breath. At this point, there is no turning back, and the gum disease is no longer reversible.
How to Improve Your Gum Health
There is good news, though! That is that gum disease is entirely preventable. Whether you’re in the gingivitis stage or being proactive about your gum health, here are the things you need to do:
Brush your teeth twice a day, every day.
Floss your teeth at least once a day.
See your dentist for a cleaning and an exam on a schedule that your body needs.
Use fluoride toothpaste that the American Dental Association approves.
Add an antibacterial mouthwash to your at-home dental care routine (remember that mouthwash only helps, it does not replace the need for regular brushing and flossing).
Avoid smoking and consuming foods and drinks that are high in sugar continuously throughout the day.
Come to Oak Hills Dentistry
Whether you’re concerned about your gum health or are seeking out a new dentist in your area, Oak Hills Dentistry is the place for you and your family. We specialize in incredible family and cosmetic dentistry with a gentle touch that will make every dentist appointment comfortable. You will always feel welcome at Oak Hills Dentistry. Our friendly, dedicated staff and dentists strive to give you the best dental care dentistry can offer. Our dental office is in Layton, Utah, so if you’re in the area, contact us today to make an appointment and learn more about our staff and services.