When you think of a beautiful, healthy smile, you probably think about a dazzling set of pearly whites. However, it takes much more than sparkling teeth to keep your smile in good shape. Healthy gum tissue is essential for good oral health, and it plays a key role in your overall wellbeing as well. Here are the top reasons why you should take excellent care of your gums and what you can do to avoid periodontal therapy in Houston.
Unhealthy Gums Cause Are Bad for Teeth
Did you know that plaque building up on your teeth can cause more than just cavities? The bacteria it contains also attack your gum tissues. If it’s not cleared away with regular brushing and flossing, you can develop a bacterial infection known as periodontal (gum) disease. The first stage, which is known as gingivitis, causes inflamed, tender, and easily bleeding gums.
Unfortunately, its negative effects don’t stop at the gum tissue. If gum disease is not treated in its early stages, it can advance into periodontitis. This means that the bacterial infection has spread and grown strong enough to seriously infect teeth and cause permanent jawbone damage. Eventually, it will begin to destroy the connective tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the US.
Connecting Gum Health to Overall Wellbeing
Recently, dental and health experts have begun to focus on the connection between gum disease and overall health. They believe that the bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease pose a threat to the rest of your body. If either were to spread beyond your mouth and impact other systems, they could cause serious health issues. Recent research backs up these concerns and indicate that gum disease increases a person’s risk of:
- Nutritional and digestion issues
- Worsening diabetes
- Respiratory infections
- Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss
- Heart disease
Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy
Thankfully, there are plenty of simple habits that can help keep your gum tissue clean and healthy, like:
- Brushing with a fluoridated, non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Replacing your frayed toothbrush every three to four months.
- Flossing between your teeth every day.
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash regularly.
- Eating a balanced, low-sugar diet.
- Quitting the use of tobacco products.
- Keeping an eye out for symptoms of periodontal disease.
- Seeing your dentist twice a year for a dental checkup.
If you notice your gums are bright red, swollen, sensitive, or bleed easily, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They may suggest periodontal therapy to quickly and comfortably get your gum health back on track.
About the Author
Dr. Cher Rich has been helping the smiles of Houston, TX stay happy and healthy for more than a decade now. She uses state-of-the-art dental equipment in a friendly, welcoming environment to ensure every appointment is as comfortable and efficient as possible. While she always does her best to prevent oral health issues from developing in the first place, she is fully prepared to help you overcome gum disease with a variety of periodontal therapy treatments. If you’re concerned about your gum health, don’t hesitate to contact her via her website or at (281) 469-6281.