Healthy gums are crucial tor oral health. Here are 4 signs of healthy gums and how to recognize signs of gum disease
While many people tend to focus on teeth when talking about oral health, gums are critical as well. Healthy gums are crucial for overall health, as bacteria from damaged gums can find their way easily into the bloodstream, making the body vulnerable to infections.
Regardless of how healthy your teeth are, they need healthy gums to support them. Gums serve as a seal around teeth, safeguarding more sensitive tissues underneath.
4 signs of healthy gums
- Color: Gums should be pink, not red or white. Some people have dark gums due to genetic causes, which is normal.
- Odor: Healthy gums often means the mouth has a natural smell. Bad breath may indicate pockets of bacteria under the gums. Halitosis can likewise be an indication of untreated tooth decay.
- Teeth: Loose teeth could be a sign of gum disease.
- Taste and sensation: If your gums bleed or ache when brushing or flossing, this is also a sign of gum disease.
What are signs of unhealthy gums?
Signs of unhealthy gums include:
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Gingivitis (red or swollen gums)
- Sensitive gums
- Bleeding
- Pus between the gums
- Pain while chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gums
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film that grows over the tooth surface. If plaque is left untreated, it solidifies into tartar, which becomes home to bacteria.
Gum disease has three phases:
- Gingivitis: In this early phase, there are red, swollen, tender gums that bleed. At this stage, it is easily treatable with just brushing and flossing.
- Mild to moderate periodontitis: In this stage, there is increased inflammation and bleeding around the tooth. It happens when bacterial toxins are present in the plaque, causing decomposition of the gum attachment to the tooth. Treatment at this stage is necessary to prevent more bone loss and loosening of teeth.
- Advanced periodontitis: This stage has further deepened gum pockets along with substantial loss of bone that holds teeth in place. At this stage, teeth may loosen and free themselves to the point that they must be removed.
5 ways to maintain healthy gums
- Floss daily: Floss at least once a day. This helps get rid of plaque and food particles that your toothbrush cannot reach.
- Brush twice a day: Brush your teeth morning and night to help remove the food and plaque caught between teeth and gums. Clean your tongue as well as it can hold onto bacteria.
- Use a mouthwash: Over-the-counter mouthwashes can help reduce plaque formation, prevent or reduce gingivitis, or reduce the development of tartar.
- Get regular cleanings: Your dentist can identify signs of early gum disease, making sure they are treated before they become more severe.
- Stop smoking: Smoking can lead to the onset of gum disease by causing cellular damage. Because smoking weakens your immune system, it also makes it harder to fight infection.