What Do Your Gums Do?
Your gums are a major part of your mouth’s structure, and although they do not have the same function as teeth, they protect your teeth and help prevent diseases developing. Your teeth are supported by your gums, which are a soft skin that covers the bones of your mouth. This tissue creates a seal around your teeth and keeps them in place, as well as providing a barrier against bacteria. This means, without the correct care and attention, damaged and neglected gums can lead to gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum Disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of infections and inflammation in your gums and surrounding bones. Symptoms of gum disease can include bleeding gums, swollen gums and bad breath. Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. The maintenance of gum health is important to keep a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth, preventing gum disease.
How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
Well, that’s a good question. There are many ways to prevent and reduce the chance of developing gum disease. Here we have compiled a list of some of the easiest ways to keep your gums healthy.
1. Brush. Consistently.
You’ve heard it before, but ensuring you brush your teeth twice a day is the easiest way to upkeep your gums and teeth.
2. Quit Smoking
Smoking tobacco causes a lack of oxygen in your bloodstream, leading to the infected gums not being able to heal.
3. Floss
Flossing is an effective and useful way to remove plaque, especially in between the teeth or under the gum line-places where a toothbrush can’t reach. Less plaque in your mouth will reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.
4. Regular Dental Checkups
The simplest and most effective way to prevent gum disease is to stay on top of your dental checkups. You should be visiting your dentist every 6 months, or at the very least once a year. Leave it to an expert to assess and advise and you won’t need to worry about gum disease at all. Look after your gums, contact us today to book your checkup at The Courtyard Clinic.
