Gum Health Basics!

Everyone wants an attractive smile! A smile is attractive only if your gums and teeth are healthy. Gums are the foundation of oral health. Gums play an important role in holding the teeth firmly in their place. Gums are a barrier to prevent infection.

WHAT IS GINGIVITS?

PLAQUE – a thin sticky film of millions of bacteria that builds on the tooth surface is the main reason for developing any kind of gum disease. If this plaque is not removed efficiently it begins to harden and form a crust like layer called TARTAR or CALCULUS which accumulates over your teeth surface and may also go under your gums. This tartar produces acid as a waste product which erodes the tooth and also irritates the gums causing tenderness and inflammation. This infection of gums is called GINGIVITIS.

Gingivitis may not seem to be a big deal but if left untreated may lead a major problem. Gingivitis is a minor infection of gums but is an infection. However, gingivitis is preventable and also treatable.

Twice brushing daily, flossing and getting your teeth cleaned every six months by a professional dentist can help you prevent gingivitis

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Gingivitis is localised only to gums, but if left untreated the bacteria seep into the bone spreading it to the bone as well. This infection of both gums and bone is called Periodontitis. There is loss of gums as well bone. The teeth are then jeopardized because very less support is left to hold them in place. Periodontitis is treatable but the damage is irreversible.

SIGNS OF TROUBLE

• BLEEDING DURING BRUSHING, FLOSSING OR EATING.

Do not ignore bleeding. Bleeding occurs when your gums are inflamed and tender due the plaque bacteria. Immediately see your dentist and seek for treatment.

• REDNESS OF GUMS.

Normal healthy gums have pink colour but the infected gums appear reddish due to increased blood supply to fight against the infection caused by the bacteria.

• SENSITIVITY TO HOT AND COLD.

Gums tend recede (move downwards from its position) due to the infection leaving the tooth surface naked. This may lead to sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks.

TIPS TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY GUMS

• Not only brush your teeth but also brush your gums and tongue.
• Change your toothbrush every 3months as its bristles tend to worn out reducing its efficiency to remove plaque.
• Do not forget to floss.
• Use mouthwash. Mouthwash has an antibacterial effect which helps to fight against the bad bacteria in your mouth.
• Visit your dentist every 6months for regular check ups as some signs which you might miss out can only be caught by a professional Dentist.