Children, or even adults, are constantly reminded to brush twice a day to avoid the bad guys like cavities from harming their teeth. However, aside from the teeth, there is another oral structure that also requires a sufficient amount of care and attention – the gums. Do know that the teeth are not the only ones who can benefit from daily oral hygiene activities. How you treat your gums can make a big difference! When brushing, people are encouraged to include the area along the gumline for best results.
What makes the gums as important as the teeth?
Many people may not realize it, but the gums are essential in maintaining excellent overall oral health. Know that if the gums are compromised, the teeth are affected as well. The soft tissues are one of the structures that keep the teeth in place, meaning both the teeth and gums are connected in some way. For example, untreated gum disease does not only lead to the decline of the soft tissues; it may even cause tooth loss due to the destruction of the bony oral structures.
Unfortunately, people who suffer from gum disease may experience other issues that are not exclusive to the oral regions. Based on some researches and studies, their risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, pregnancy complications, and chronic respiratory disease increases as well.
For patients to keep not only their oral wellness but general health in shape, it is best to observe the best practices in gum treatment. To help them, we at Thousand Oaks Dental listed some easy tips to follow!
Gum Care Tips
Stop smoking
People are already aware of the negative impacts of smoking on the body, yet many still ignore this warning. Do remember that when this bad habit is tolerated, it increases a person’s risk of developing gum disease.
Make sure to brush and floss
Brushing and flossing are the simplest yet easily ignored oral hygiene practices. Do know that brushing alone is not enough since some areas of the teeth can be left uncleaned. It is best to perform both for best results.
- Quick fact: Know that flossing actually helps the gums stay healthy. Aside from removing stuck food debris, it also massages the soft tissue which increases blood flow for better healing.
Eat healthily
Incorporating healthy foods to one’s diet is a good practice to keep the body healthy. But, do know that it also works wonders for the teeth, gums, and other oral structures. Certain foods are best for the gums not only because of the nutrients they have, but they contain anti-inflammatory properties at the same time.
Schedule regular checkups and cleanings
Patients are encouraged to visit the dentist every six months for their routine professional cleanings and checkups. During appointments, dentists would thoroughly get rid of harmful accumulations in the mouth and then check for symptoms of gum disease. Afterward, the dentist would recommend the treatments needed to cure the complication before it worsens.
At our practice, we are not only committed to caring for your oral health but general wellness as well. Since gum disease can affect this balance, we offer several services that can handle gum care effectively.
If you experience early signs of periodontal disease, like the sudden bleeding of gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, contact our office at Thousand Oaks Dental for Periodontal Care in San Antonio, TX! Let us help take care of your overall oral health. Book an appointment now!