Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums Shared By Florida Dentist, Dr. Hank Barreto
Maintaining proper dental hygiene doesn’t have to be challenging, and with health tips from a top Florida dentist, you can keep your mouth bacteria free and your smile shining. Teeth are some of the first things we notice about a person’s outward appearance, and if you want the confidence of a big, bright smile then taking care of your oral health is extremely important.
Below, we’ll run through some of the leading causes of unhealthy gums, how you help reverse symptoms through treatment, or just outright avoid them.
National Gum Care Month
As September is National Gum Care Month, there’s no better time to discuss gum problems and how to keep gums healthy. In America, 47.2% of individuals are suffering from gum diseases, while a significant 70.1% of the senior population are victims of periodontal (gums) diseases.
These numbers imply there is a massive disconnect between people and the knowledge of how to properly take care of oral health.
How To Fix Unhealthy Gums
A large number of the population is unaware of the importance of maintaining healthy gums. Dr. Hank Barreto, a top holistic dentist in Coral Gables, can help you take care of your gums and prevent diseases and issues down the road, including:
- Teeth loss
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Diabetes
- Chronic Respiratory issues
- Dementia
- Alzheimer
- Pregnancy complications
The Two Dreaded Gum Diseases
The two most common and deadly gum diseases are:
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a common gum disease. On the spectrum of periodontal diseases, it ranks as a mild disease. But if it is not treated on time, it can lead to other serious consequences such as tooth loss.
Cause
The cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene, such as lack of brushing and flossing.
Symptoms
Gingivitis is diagnosed through swollen gums, bad breath, red gums, and tender and bleeding gums.
Treatment
Gingivitis can be reversed by practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, avoiding sugary foods, and dental checkups.
2. Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a severe infection of the gums. It badly damages the gum tissue and destroys the bone supporting the tooth, which results in tooth loss.
Cause
Periodontitis is caused by untreated gingivitis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of periodontitis are:
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Blood during floss and tooth brushing
- Loss of teeth
- New spaces between teeth
Treatment
Periodontitis is treated through antibiotic medication. In severe cases, surgical treatment like flap surgery, bone grafting, or soft tissue grafting is necessary for strengthening gums and teeth.
When to Worry About Your Gums?
The answer to that is: always. The Florida Dental Association instructs you always to maintain your oral health. You are also advised to notice the changes occurring in your mouth. However, you should immediately call a checkup with your dentist if you observe:
- Teeth and gums discoloration
- Constant pain in teeth and gums
- Constant and incurable gum sores
- Weak or loose teeth
Learn How to Prevent Gum Disease
Gum diseases are troubling, and they should be taken quite seriously. But if you take care of your gums properly, you will never have to worry about them. Regularly follow the instructions given below, and your gums will never trouble you.
- Floss once a day
- Brush teeth twice a day
- Don’t brush teeth more than twice a day to avoid enamel damage
- Get regular dental cleaning checkups
- Stop smoking
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Use soothing mouthwash
Always Consult With an Expert
In case your gums still trouble you, or if you would like to discuss possible symptoms with a professional, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Barreto. As a highly regarded holistic dentist in the Coral Gables and Miami area, he can apply a special approach to oral healthcare.