Oral Health Link to Whole Body Health: A Blog

Three simple steps you can take to keep your gums healthy

14 April 2016

Duane Kelly

Most people are aware of the important role that their gums play in maintaining a healthy set of teeth. However, few realise the significant function this body part plays in their overall health; Crest.com reports that there is a strong link between the most advanced stage of periodontal (gum) disease - known as periodontitis - and conditions like heart disease and diabetes. As such, it really is worth taking the time to look after your gums. Here are a few ways that you can do this.

1. Watch out for symptoms

If you want to maintain good gum health, you must be able to recognise symptoms of gum disease. Better Health explains that the early-stage signs (referred to as gingivitis) include swelling, redness and tenderness, as well as blood when you brush or floss your teeth. As the condition progresses to periodontitis, you may also notice receding of the gum line, bad  breath, abscesses and loose teeth.

2. Avoid the number one cause of gum disease

According to Medicine Net, gum disease is almost always the result of poor dental hygiene. A lack of regular brushing and flossing leads to a build up of plaque, the sticky film that coats the teeth; when left for too long, this plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed with a toothbrush, and will eventually cause cavities and periodontal disease if it is not scraped off by a dentist.

A daily oral hygiene routine is therefore essential. It's worth noting that even if you have already spotted signs of this disease, you can stop it in its tracks if you begin to take greater care of your teeth and gums. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, and aim to floss in between your teeth after each meal. A trip to the dentist in your local area is also advisable, particularly if you have been lax with teeth brushing in the past, as you will probably have a significant amount of tartar build-up. The dentist should be able to remove this using a number of specialist tools.

3. If you smoke, quit!

It's widely known that smoking is an extremely unhealthy habit, which can lead to a number of serious illnesses. It is also believed to be a factor in the development of periodontal disease; WebMD notes that this activity not only increases the amount of plaque and tartar on the teeth, but also negatively affects the tissue and bone that are attached to the teeth. Given these facts, any smokers who are concerned about developing gum disease should take steps to give up this habit as soon as possible.

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