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Maintaining Healthy Teeth And Gums

Why You Need Healthy Gums

Poor foundations result in loose teeth, red or swollen gums and bleeding when brushing which are all signs you have a form of gum disease (gingivitis).

When gingivitis is left untreated it can develop further into a type of infection known as periodontitis, which affects the entire area surrounding the tooth, which could result in losing the tooth.

Whilst it is important to have a regular home cleaning routine, it is highly recommended that you have regular hygiene therapy too, often known as periodontal treatment. The hygienist uses special tools to clean below the gum line, a place that a toothbrush can’t reach. It is this treatment that provides remedies for healthy gums by deep cleaning the gums around the teeth making it easier to maintain healthy, strong teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Signs of Healthy Gums

While it is easy to spot the signs of healthy teeth and gums, many people do not know what signs of healthy gums or unhealthy gum looks like.

The gums themselves are made up of soft tissue, covering the bones which support the teeth. Generally, signs of healthy gums consist of a light pink colour, however, the exact shade can vary by your individual ethnic background. Likewise, if your gums become swollen, red or begin to pull back this is not normal and is a sign of an issue.

When flossing and brushing, please be gentle! Normally you should not see any bleeding in the sink when you are cleaning your teeth. Healthy gums, which are flossed and brushed regularly should not experience bleeding. Bleeding is a sign of gum damage and possible gum disease. If you do spot this please do book in to see your hygienist who will be able to advise on the cause.

Protection Against Gum Disease

NHS data suggests that 50% of those over the age of 35 suffer from some degree of gum disease. Gum disease is reversible in its early stages, however, if left unchecked it can progress and ultimately lead to pain, bad breath and tooth loss. Your hygienist can help safeguard your gums by removing harmful bacteria from below the gum line and get your oral health back on track through a periodontal treatment.

Regular visits to your hygienist will help identify any potential oral health issues at an early stage and aid you in maintaining healthy teeth and gums before they result in discomfort or require potentially costly treatment.

Removal of plaque and tartar build-up helps prevent the release of acids that are harmful to your teeth and gums. After a periodontal treatment, your gums will become healthier, which will help you keep your teeth longer. The improvements will depend on how good your cleaning becomes and how severe your disease was to start with.

Healthy Gums Treatments

Knowing your gums are healthy and spotting the signs of healthy teeth and gums gives you the confidence that comes from knowing that your smile is healthy.

Ensuring you keep up good oral health practices can often eliminate gum disease, much like exercising to keep up bodily health, your hygienist can recommend a personalised plan to keep your gums in tip top condition.

If you are worried about a hygiene treatment why not listen to Julie’s story about her treatment as she was incredibly nervous, but our team made her feel reassured and boosted her confidence.

Find your local Together Dental Practice to get expert advice