Did you know that 7 out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease at some point in their lives? While it might be common, it’s not something that should be taken lightly.
Healthy gums are the foundation of all mouth hygiene. Most people don’t realize how vital they are until they have experienced a toothache or gum infection. If you want to keep your mouth in top shape, you need to know what is going on in there. Here we will explore the importance of gum health and ways to maintain a healthy mouth.
Why You Should Keep Your Gums Healthy
Gum disease or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums. While it is a preventable condition, when left untreated, it can cause gums to recede and the bone that supports the teeth to thin out and weaken. If the infection reaches the nerve, it can cause loss of sensation in your jaw and mouth. If gum disease is not diagnosed promptly, it can lead to serious complications, including gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes swelling in the gum around the base of your teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, which can lead to much more damage to soft tissue and even affect the bone supporting the teeth.
Risks and Complications of Gum Disease
Periodontitis can cause bone loss, which leads to teeth becoming loose and falling out. In addition to that, it can also cause chronic bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.
Research has shown that individuals with gum disease can be at a higher risk of developing:
Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes
Dementia
Maintaining healthy gums is important for overall health as well as oral health.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The first sign indicating there is something wrong with your gums is minor bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. It is also crucial to keep an eye on the other symptoms and visit your dentist if you experience any of the following:
Bad breath
Red, swollen and bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Sores on the gums
Teeth coming loose
The bones around your teeth weakening
Yellowish or brownish color to your teeth
Sensitivity to hot or cold food
Tips for Healthy Gums
Gum disease can be serious, but maintaining a good oral care routine can keep it at bay. Here are some of our top tips for healthy gums:
Brush and Floss Daily
Use a soft-bristled brush to thoroughly brush your teeth every morning and evening. This will remove any food caught in your teeth and prevent bacteria from developing that could damage your gums. The soft bristles will stop you from eroding your gums as you brush.
Flossing is also essential to remove plaque from between the teeth.
Healthy Diet
Cutting down on sugary foods is key. Try switching to healthy snacks like celery, which can actually help to clean your teeth and massage your gums as you eat it! Also, make sure that you're drinking plenty of water daily.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can greatly increase the risk of developing gum disease. It's never too late to quit and start seeing the benefits.
Visit your Dentist Regularly
Find a reliable dentist in Calgary who will monitor your gum health. It is recommended to visit a dentist every six months so they can spot any early warning signs of gum disease.
Healthy Gums, Healthy Life
Gum disease poses a serious threat to our health that we all need to take seriously. If left untreated, you may find that you need an oral surgery in Calgary to put it right. Instead, take good daily care of your teeth and gums. Brush carefully and floss each day. Eat a healthy diet and visit your Calgary dentist every six months.
At Northland Village Dental Centre, we offer a wide range of dental services. Whether you need preventative, general, restorative or cosmetic dentistry services in Calgary, we've got you covered. Contact us at 403-255-6688 or schedule an appointment online today!