Look at yourself in the mirror, and then smile. You’ll likely be able to see your pearly whites, but what about your gums that protect the teeth? Are they soft and pink?
Since a healthy mouth begins at the gums, regular dental hygiene that focuses on the condition of the gums is vital to your mouth’s overall well-being. If the tissues support your healthy gums and your teeth in your gums, your chances of having a long-term healthy mouth are considerably enhanced. If you do not maintain healthy gums, you’re more likely to suffer from gum disease that can progress to many issues with your teeth and oral health.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup below and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky and fibrous substance that’s laden with bacteria. Plaque can lead to infections, which can damage the gums and bone. This can then cause tooth decay and gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is a condition that causes the gums to become red, tender, swollen, and inflamed. Because the bone and tissue that holds the teeth in position aren’t impacted, this damage can be reversed.
What do healthy gums look like?
Before we get into the details of how to keep your healthy gums, we need to define healthy gums. Patients visit the dentist often without realizing they have gum disease. Patients usually schedule an appointment with their dentist for more visible issues or regular cleanings. The dentist can diagnose gum disease quickly when patients arrive at their appointment.
Gum disease can lead to tooth pain and early tooth decay. It can cause severe health problems and even decay of facial bones and jaws if it isn’t treated.
Why healthy gums are important?
Healthy gums are essential to have strong teeth. Similar to your skin, they are made up of soft tissues. It protects the bones that support your teeth by creating an enveloping seal. It also limits areas where plaque bacteria can thrive within your mouth. Healthy gums mean that your teeth will last longer.
Additionally, it reduces your chance of suffering from sensitivity and pain within your mouth. In addition, healthy gums are connected to the health of your body. According to research findings, healthy gums reduce the risk of these health diseases, such as Heart disease – Strokes – Dementia – Diabetes.
Healthy gums vs unhealthy gums
Begin by looking at your gums when you suspect you have a problem with gum disease. Healthy gums appear solid and pink. Unhealthy gums will appear swelling or red. They can also be bleeding when you floss or brush.
In addition to poor oral hygiene, additional factors can contribute to developing unhealthy gums. One of these is smoking tobacco, a deficient immune system because of an illness that is serious or inadequate nutrition.
It’s important to be aware of the importance of healthy gums. They’re not only essential for the health of your mouth. Healthy gums can be vital for overall well-being. Indeed, many studies indicate a link between gum disease with stroke or heart disease.
How can I keep my mouth and gums healthy naturally?
While most people are focused on their dental health, the healthy gums is equally important because they support and surround your teeth and jaw bones. Gums protect against oral infections, and you can ensure they remain in good health by following the suggestions listed below.
1. Proper Oral Hygiene
It may sound simple; however, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential in maintaining strong, healthy gums.
The first step in ensuring your mouth’s proper hygiene is to brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes. Cleaning your teeth regularly will help you avoid gum decay and cavities. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush along with fluoride toothpaste. It is also possible to use an electric or battery-powered toothbrush that provides superior plaque removal than the manual brush. It is also suitable for people who suffer from hand arthritis or for kids who love the idea of having a “machine” cleaning their teeth.
The correct method of brushing the teeth should begin by cleaning the outer surfaces of your lower and upper teeth. Then, move to the inner surfaces, chewing surfaces, and the tongue.
After cleaning your teeth, remember to floss to get into the space between the teeth and beneath your gumline. Use a gentle flossing technique so that you don’t hurt your gums.
Changing your toothbrush every three months is recommended, and make sure you use antibacterial toothpaste.
2. Limit Sugary Foods
You can keep healthy gums and cavities away by altering the foods you eat to be rich in vitamins and nutrients.
Food items high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and magnesium, as well as calcium, are great for maintaining solid gums and creating strong enamel for teeth.
Take note of your sugar intake, especially if you have diabetes, as you are at a greater risk of gingivitis and tooth decay. Diabetes lowers your ability to fight bacteria and can slow the healing process. As a result, periodontitis or advanced gum disease can increase your blood sugar levels, making it more challenging to manage your diabetes.
The best foods for healthy gums are:
- Apples
- Ginger
- Dairy
- Spinach
- Celery
3. Don’t Smoke
Smoking can weaken the immune system. Whether consumed by chewing or smoking, tobacco increases your chance of developing gum disease. Chemicals in tobacco products influence the flow of saliva through the mouth, making it easier for bacteria to adhere to your gums.
When compared to non-smokers, smokers are twice more likely to develop gum disease. Treatments for gum disease may be less effective for those who smoke.
4. Visit The Dentist Regularly
Unfortunately, the dental office is one of the places where many think it is okay not to visit for months. It is crucial to keep track of your routine check-ups with your dentist, as issues such as gum disease could develop.
Periodontal infections are infections of the dental structures, including the gums, the alveolar bone, and the periodontal ligament. The initial stage of periodontal illness is gingivitis. It is gum disease.
So regular visits to the dentist and rehearsing dental hygiene skills will decrease the chance of this condition worsening.
5. Give Your Tongue a Gentle Scrubbing Too
The mouth, including the tongue, could be home to harmful bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Therefore take your time giving the tongue an easy rub with your soft-bristled toothbrush.
6. Use Baking Soda When Brushing
The research results suggest the baking soda ingredient efficiently removes plaque. It is also safe to use on teeth, inexpensive, and available at almost all grocery stores.
A different study also discovered that baking soda could aid in the prevention of the development of tooth decay. Its antimicrobial properties may reduce the number of bacteria known as Streptococcus mutants. This is the primary type of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
7. Pull Out Bacteria with Oil
Oil pulling is a great way to reduce harmful bacteria within your mouth. Particularly coconut oil, which is rich in solid antioxidants and properties that combat inflammation.
In one study, coconut oil reduced dental plaque by 50% among the subjects. They also noted a substantial decrease in the signs of gingivitis.
To pull oil, heat about a tablespoon of coconut oil, then swish the oil in your mouth for about 10 minutes. Then, you can dispose of the oil in the trash can.
If you do not have coconut oil, you could use sunflower or sesame oil. Both have been shown to have plaque-reducing properties.
8. Watch for signs of gum disease
It is essential to examine your gums for signs of gum disease, even if you do everything possible. Informing your dentist immediately if you notice any signs of gum disease is essential.
- You have bleeding gums.
- Gums that are red, tender, or swollen.
- When your gums and teeth are pressed, you can see pus.
- Lasting bad breath.
- The pain when chewing.
- You have loose teeth, or your teeth are separating.
- Your Gums pull away from the tooth (receding gums).
Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can lead to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. It’s not painful in its early stages. If it is not diagnosed early enough and you take the necessary steps to manage the condition, it can be difficult and costly to treat.
9. Use fluoride toothpaste
For toothpaste, store shelves are filled with brands that claim to prevent gum disease, improve breath, and even whiten teeth. How can you tell which is the best choice to keep your gums healthy? Make sure you choose a toothpaste with fluoride endorsed by an ADA seal of approval. The taste and color will be your choice!
You can buy toothpaste that has fluoride on the internet.
10. Rinse your mouth out with care
A lot of people rinse their mouths out after brushing their teeth. However, good oral hygiene practices can enhance the effectiveness of fluoride-containing products like toothpaste.
However, if someone can rinse their mouth when they eat, they could wash away food particles and bacteria that can cause tartar and plaque to form.
