Do your gums seem to be receding or feeling tender? You may be surprised to learn that your gums could be giving you signals about the state of your oral health. From cavities and plaque buildup to gingivitis, there are many telltale signs that can reveal important insights about the condition of your teeth and gums. In this article, we’ll explore what your gums are trying to tell you about your health! 

Signs of Problems With Your Teeth and Gums

If you notice any of the following signs, it could mean that your teeth and gums are at risk:

• Bleeding or tender gums when brushing or flossing: These can be signs of gum disease, which is caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth decay.
• Red, swollen gums: This could be a sign of gingivitis, which is an infection of the gum tissue caused by bacteria. If not treated, it can cause serious damage to your teeth.
• Receding gums: This symptom can indicate that your gums are beginning to pull away from your teeth, which can expose them to bacteria and increase your risk of infection.
• Loose teeth: If you notice that your teeth are moving or getting loose, this could be a sign that your gums have been weakened by the plaque buildup associated with gum disease.
• Bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth: This can point to a buildup of bacteria in your mouth, which is often caused by poor oral hygiene.

How Poor Oral Hygiene Can Affect Your Health

Not only can poor oral hygiene lead to gum disease, but it can also lead to a host of other health problems, such as:

Heart Disease and Stroke

Studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. This is because bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and increase inflammation, which can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease due to their compromised immune systems. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen diabetes, and vice versa.

Respiratory Problems

Bacteria from the mouth can travel to the lungs and cause infections, such as pneumonia. This is especially true for people who already have weakened immune systems or respiratory conditions.

What to Do if You Have Gum Disease

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to visit your dentist for a professional evaluation. Your dentist can diagnose gum disease and recommend appropriate treatment options. This may include deep cleaning of the teeth and gums, antibiotics, or surgery. It’s also important to practice good oral hygiene habits on a daily basis in order to prevent gum disease from developing or worsening.

How to Protect Your Dental Health

The best way to protect your dental health is to practice good oral hygiene habits, like: 

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. (Medium or hard bristles can damage your gums and tooth enamel.) When you brush, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums. This helps sweep away plaque and bacteria at the gum line. Be sure to brush all teeth surfaces, including the backs and sides.
• Floss once daily. You can’t reach the spaces between your teeth with brushing alone. To clean these areas, you need dental floss. Take a piece of floss that’s about 18 inches long. Wrap each end around your middle fingers. Using your thumbs and forefingers, guide the floss between two teeth. Wrap the floss snugly around one tooth in a C shape and clean it using about 10 up and down strokes. Next, wrap the floss around the other tooth and repeat. Continue this process on all of your teeth. If you have dexterity issues, you can also use interproximal brushes and dental picks to clean between your teeth.
• Brush your tongue. Your tongue holds bacteria like a sponge. Whenever you brush your teeth, don’t forget to brush your tongue. You can use your toothbrush for this purpose. Or, you can purchase a tongue scraper in the oral health aisle.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash every day. Antibacterial mouthwash helps keep harmful oral bacteria at bay. In addition to washing away food and debris, it also reduces plaque buildup. Be sure to choose an alcohol-free formula to prevent dry mouth.
• Visit your dentist regularly. Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential for good oral health. Many people do well with six-month visits. But, if you’re prone to cavities, gum disease or other oral health problems, you may need more frequent appointments.
• Avoid smoking and other tobacco products. Smoking is a leading cause of gum disease and oral cancer. It’s best to avoid these products altogether. If you currently smoke and would like to quit, ask your healthcare provider about treatment options that can help.

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry

If you are experiencing any of the signs listed above, it’s important to visit your dentist for a professional evaluation. At Mountain Aire Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental care and apply evidence-based dentistry to every diagnosis. Our experienced doctors use the latest technologies and treatments to ensure that each patient receives personalized care and treatment plans. To make an appointment, contact us today!