September is National Gum Care Month – the perfect time to consider how we treat our gums and how that impacts our smile overall.
Why are gums important?
Gums are the soft tissues that surround and anchor our teeth inside our mouths. They are made of connective fibers that hold our teeth to our bones and fill in the gaps between neighboring teeth. In other words, they help keep our teeth in place inside our mouths and help to keep the inside of our mouths clean.
What are the best ways to care for our gums?
Luckily, the same daily habits we use to keep our teeth healthy are also essential for our gum health.
- Brush your teeth twice every day for two minutes with fluoridated toothpaste, including gently along your gumline
- Floss to clear away any debris from between teeth and along the gums
- Stay hydrated (fluoridated tap water is the #1 choice)
- Eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet (fruits and veggies for fiber and vitamins)
- Do not use tobacco or begin the process of quitting
- See your dentist and hygienist regularly for cleanings and exams
What are the signs that gums are not healthy?
- Redness or discoloration (healthy gums should be pink)
- Swelling
- Loose or sunken appearance (gums should fit snugly around your teeth)
- Bleeding
- Pain or soreness
- Bad breath or bad taste
If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist and be sure to alert them to what you are experiencing. It may be gingivitis or gum (periodontal) disease, which can be treated most effectively in the earlier stages. As the condition worsens, it can lead to many more serious complications, such as bone and tooth loss.
Gums and overall health
Gum disease can have effects that spread outside the mouth to the rest of your body. Studies have shown that those with gum disease are at higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, and dementia, among other conditions. The link between gum disease and these other conditions is believed to be related to inflammation.
As we age, we want to keep as many of our natural teeth as possible. It has been proven that the number of teeth we have can indicate our life expectancy, with more teeth meaning more years. By taking care of our gums, we can help reduce the risk of losing teeth, improve our overall health, and even increase our lifespan!
Celebrate National Gum Care Month by giving your gums some extra love 💗
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This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
