September is National Gum Care Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to learn all about how important gums are to your health. The more you know about how to keep your gums healthy, the less likely you will be to develop gum disease.
As kids go back to school this month to resume their education, take some time to educate yourself about gum health and then take action by scheduling an appointment with your New York dentist. At Babylon Dental Care, we are happy to answer any questions you have about gum care, so contact us today at (631) 983-6665.
Why Are Gums So Important?
When we talk about dental health, we usually focus on our teeth. Another important part of our mouth, however, is our gums. They protect our teeth by covering the sensitive roots of our teeth. If not taken care of properly, they no longer help your teeth but actually cause harm and put your teeth and health at risk of more serious problems.
What Is Gum Disease?
Proper oral hygiene is especially important for gum health because if you can notice gum disease, or gingivitis, early on, then you can avoid the more painful and longer lasting effects of its advanced stage, also known as periodontal disease. To treat it early, you need to know the signs of gum disease and see your dentist right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Swollen or unusually red or purple gums
- Frequent bleeding of your gums when you brush or floss
- Receding gum line on all or some of your teeth
- Tenderness in your gums
- Puss oozing out of your gums
- Loose teeth from a receding gum line
Gum disease not only affects the health of your mouth, but it can also affect the health of your whole body. Periodontal disease is linked to a host of serious conditions including:
- Cardiac problems
- Digestive problems
- Birth complications
- Diabetes
Fortunately, you can largely avoid gingivitis and periodontal disease by practicing good oral hygiene and gum care.
What Is the Best Way to Care for My Gums?
The good news is that your gums need the same care that your teeth do. Daily flossing and proper brushing goes a long way in keeping your gums free from infection. By flossing, you can more effectively remove the debris from between your teeth that brushing may miss. It’s in these tight spots that infection is most likely to begin for gums and teeth, so flossing morning and night is important to keep gums healthy. Brushing at least twice daily is also an effective way to ward off gum disease, but keep in mind that brushing too vigorously can actually damage the gums. Instead, use a soft toothbrush and lighten up on the pressure you apply to your gums while you are brushing. These simple steps can help you keep your gums happy and healthy for years to come.
Take advantage of National Gum Care Awareness Month and make your appointment with Babylon Dental Care today. Our compassionate and skilled dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve peak dental health. Contact our New York offices today at (631) 983-6665 to take care of your gums and have the healthiest mouth possible.
