For the most part, the gums are often overlooked in our daily oral hygiene, as the two-minute protocol for brushing our teeth seems to be the limit for the amount of time we spend attending to our teeth and overall mouth health.
Unfortunately, brushing alone is not enough to prevent what many people commonly experience as the by-product of insufficient oral hygiene: gum disease!
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is a common culprit for the discomfort we experience while brushing, flossing, or eating certain foods. The gums are often inflamed, sensitive, and bleed when friction is applied, creating an unpleasant experience.
Unfortunately, many people miss the early signs of gum disease settling in, allowing it to turn into a much more significant problem that can possibly cause tooth loss! This is why regular dental visits are crucial for detecting early signs of gum disease and for implementing preventative practices to ensure your gums and teeth are not compromised by the buildup of plaque and bacteria.
The gums are just as important as the teeth and should therefore be given just as much attention during your daily oral hygiene routine.
Continue reading below to learn more about detecting early-onset gum disease and preventative measures you can incorporate into your routine, then visit Family Dental Care today to schedule an appointment.
Early Signs And Symptoms You May Have Gum Disease
Have you ever really had a good look at your gums? We’re always so concerned about the shape and colour of our teeth but never really bother about the health and appearance of the gums that hold those teeth in place. So, pull your lip down and have a good look because your gums say a lot about your oral health!
If your gums appear to be bright red or purple in colour, are inflamed or tender to the touch, bleed during and after brushing and flossing, or you struggle with persistent bad breath, you may already have a form of gum disease.
Of course, brushing too hard or flossing against the gums can cause pain and bleeding, but unhealthy gums will bleed without much agitation.
Although there are many reasons you may struggle with gum disease, such as genetics or misaligned teeth, poor oral care will only lead to bigger problems.
Continue reading to learn a few preventative measures you can easily incorporate into your daily oral hygiene routine.
Easy To Do Gum Disease Preventative Practices.
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day.
- Limit sugary foods and focus on a high-fiber diet.
- Correct misaligned teeth and schedule teeth cleaning at least twice a year to remove tartar buildup above and below the gum line.
Don’t let your gums be the last thing you think about as they deserve your attention too!
To help avoid and prevent gum disease, contact Family Dental Care today to schedule an appointment!