Healthy gums are an essential aspect of overall oral health but they often receive little attention until problems develop. Problems such as bleeding from gums can show underlying dental issues that need immediate attention. As a dentist in Bangalore, I go on about maintaining gum health and how easy preventive measures can be taken to prevent gum decay. In this blog, we will discuss the best practices of keeping your gums healthy and the actions to take when you notice bleeding gums.
Understanding Gum Health
Gum disease occur when the gums become inflamed as a result of plaque accumulating on the teeth. Early forms of gum disease can be asymptomatic and difficult to detect. If not treated, it can develop to a more serious condition, eventually resulting in tooth loss, among other health issues.
Some common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Gums that bleed — especially when you brush or floss
- Swollen or red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
If you have any of the above symptoms, it is important to visit your dentist in Bangalore for a proper consultation and treatment.
How to maintain healthy gums?
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is directly related to gum health.It is important to Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. We recommend that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush so the gums are not irritated. Brush at least for two minutes focusing on your gum line, where plaque usually builds up.
Flossing on a daily basis is equally important. Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth that your toothbrush might find difficult to do, which helps prevent gum disease and bleeding gums.
Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse twice a day helps kill the bacteria that cause plaque deposition in the mouth. Choose mouthwashes formulated to fight gum disease. Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing and flossing can give your gums an added level of protection.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat is a big part of oral and gum health. A mixed diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps you maintain healthy gums. Citrus fruits like strawberries, oranges and leafy greens support gum health as they are rich in Vitamin C and minerals . Food items like fish and flaxseeds are thought to help reduce inflammation as they are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial to gum health.
Restrict sugary snacks and drinks also as sugar plays a major role in plaque development. Also stay away from tobacco products, which substantially raise the risk of gum disease.
Stay Hydrated
In addition to general health, remain hydrated to ensure good oral health. Drinking water aids in saliva production, which is critical for wiping away food particles and neutralising acids from mouth bacteria. Saliva also has minerals that fortify teeth and helps maintain gum health.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Healthy gums require regular visits to a dentist. Regular brushing and flossing can miss plaque and tartar that professional cleanings remove. Your dentist can spot early signs of gum disease during your check-up and recommend treatment, helping you avoid a stern talking-to later.
Most dentists suggest two visits per year, but if you have a history of gum disease, you may need to go in for checkups more often.
Alleviate Gum Bleeding Initially
If you experience bleeding of the gums during brushing or flossing, it is a problem that needs to be addressed. Bleeding occasionally may happen when brushing too hard but consistent bleeding may be a sign of gum disease. Call up your dentist to have the symptoms behind your mouth looked into. Acting quickly can help avert more serious problems down the line. Using a pinch of salt in lukewarm water and rinsing with the same can act as an excellent initial treatment for bleeding gums.
Think about Professional Treatments
Treatments your dentist may suggest if you are diagnosed with gum disease include scaling and root planing a process that includes a deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar. Chronic or aggressive forms may necessitate surgical intervention for gum health improvement.
Educate Yourself about oral hygiene
Staying informed is the first step towards maintaining good oral health . Understanding things what would put you at risk for gum disease like improper diet, medications and other factors can help you make better decisions when it comes to your gum health which can help keep your mouth healthy.
Conclusion
Ensuring that your gums are healthy is necessary for your overall oral health and well-being. If you want to prevent gum disease all you need to do is develop good oral hygiene habits like brushing your teeth regularly and not missing out on flossing. If you notice symptoms like bleeding from gums, do not hesitate in consulting a Dentist as they will help you to maintain good oral health . Gum diseases are very common however, they can easily be avoided with regular dental visits and good oral hygiene habits. Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile so ensure you take good care of them!