Gum Care Month

September is one of our favorite months at High Desert Dental because it’s National Gum Care Month! Our team loves helping our patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Preventative dentistry is key to avoiding any dental problem, especially gum disease. To help you celebrate National Gum Care Month, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, shares the importance of gum care.

What is Gum Disease?

Lack of good oral health will develop into one of the four stages of gum disease. This includes gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Eventually, the harmful bacteria form into plaque on your teeth. As tartar accumulates around the gum line, your gums get progressively red, swollen, and irritated, and they finally tear away from the tooth, leaving a loose pocket.  Furthermore, gum disease damages your gums, facial structure, and teeth. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss because the gums can no longer support your teeth in place. Luckily, gum disease is preventable.

Effects Overall Wellness

Gum disease is a systemic condition caused by the body’s reaction to microorganisms, and it can have a significant effect on your general health. Our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, says that by avoiding or treating periodontal disease, you are helping to protect your body against other systemic inflammatory illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. In addition to osteoporosis, pulmonary disease, and cancer.

How Do Healthy Gums Appear?

Gums that are healthy are pink, firm, and do not bleed. Some signs of gum disease include red, sensitive, and swollen gums, bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. Additionally, you can achieve healthy gums by following a good oral health routine at home and at our dental office.

Daily Gum Health Tips & Tricks:

Getting your oral health under control is not as tough as you think. By consistently following good oral health regimen, you can have a healthy smile. To avoid gum disease, try the following gum health tips:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Should take between 2 to 3 minutes each time. 
• Floss daily
• To minimize bacteria in the mouth, rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
• Stay hydrated
• Schedule professional teeth cleaning every six months 
• Stop using tobacco products.
• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

Contact High Desert Dental for all of your oral health needs. Our team is happy to help in any way we can.