When talking about oral health, most people focus on the appearance of their smiles. However, even when your teeth are straight, white, and cavity-free, that doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk of gum disease. The onset of gum disease is often painless, so it typically goes unnoticed until the problem is so severe it requires surgery.

The good news is that you can easily prevent gum disease and reverse any damage done by practicing good oral habits. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your gums and preventing gum disease from settling in:

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease begins when plaque, a sticky, film-like substance filled with bacteria, accumulates under and along your gum line. When left alone, it results in infections that damage your gum and bone, resulting in gum disease and tooth decay. It can also lead to gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease that causes your gums to become red, tender, inflamed, swollen, and prone to bleeding. 

If you don’t seek gum disease treatment right away, your condition may progress into periodontitis, an advanced form of the disease. It affects the bones that secure your teeth. When left to progress, it can destroy your gums, bones, and the tissues that connect to your teeth. Once the condition develops into advanced periodontitis, it wrecks the fibers and bones supporting your teeth, affecting your bite and possibly requiring tooth extraction. 

The signs you may have gum disease are the following:

• Swollen, red, or tender gums

• Gums that easily bleed

• Gums that have started pulling away from your teeth

• Separating or loose permanent teeth

• Consistent bad taste or foul-smelling breath

Fortunately, gum disease is preventable. Here are five tips to practice to keep your gums pink and healthy:

Floss Once a Day

The simple act of flossing once a day will do wonders for your gum health. It will remove the plaque and food that your toothbrush can’t reach. The time you floss doesn’t matter as long as you make it a daily habit!

Brush Twice a Day

Brushing twice a day is just as important as flossing. Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal, which will dislodge the food and plaque stuck between your teeth and gums. Don’t forget to scrub your tongue since it is also a breeding ground for bacteria. Your toothbrush must have soft bristles and fit comfortably in your mouth. You may also want to consider using a battery-powered or electric toothbrush, which is more effective in reducing gingivitis and plaque than using a manual toothbrush. Change your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles start fraying.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is a vital ingredient in maintaining gum health. Be sure to choose toothpaste with fluoride and the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.

Get Frequent Teeth Cleaning

Regularly seeing your family dentist for general teeth cleaning will allow them to detect gum disease or any oral hygiene issues while they’re in their early stages. That means they can treat your symptoms before they become painful and severe. Additionally, professional dental cleaning is the only way to remove tartar effectively and any plaque that you may have missed when brushing or flossing.

Stop Smoking

There is strong evidence that smoking is linked to gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the habit hampers your immune system, making it harder to combat a gum infection. Additionally, smoking prevents your gums from healing properly.

Conclusion

Looking after your gums the right way will prevent you from suffering from gum disease, which can be painful and expensive to treat. By following our guide, your gums will be healthier than ever, giving you a truly radiant smile.

If you’re looking for gum disease treatment in Denver, let us know at G-Dental32! We are a general dentistry clinic in Denver offering affordable dental implants, teeth cleaning, emergency dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more. Book an appointment with us today!