Many people think oral hygiene only has to do with the teeth and forget all about the gums. Gum hygiene is very important not only for your dental health but overall health as well. The blood vessels, which run through your entire your body are also in your gums. So there is a possibility of disease spreading to your entire body via your gums.
To start with, how do you practice good gum hygiene? Use a good mouthwash to rinse your entire mouth including your gums properly at least twice a day. Remember that food can get stuck in your gums too. Why is gum hygiene important to your teeth?
Have you ever heard of gingivitis or periodontitis? Gingiva is actually another word for gum. To put it simply, gingivitis means gum inflammation or disease. If gingivitis worsens due to lack of care and treatment, then it becomes periodontitis, which is bone loss around the teeth.
What causes gingivitis? Many things such as the body’s hormonal changes and plaque can cause gingivitis. If there is plaque on your teeth, it is merely a matter of time before gingivitis develops. Increase in the number of bacteria can cause swelling or inflammation of the gums.
If you see blood while flossing or brushing your teeth, don’t panic. This blood might be due to the swelling of your gums or gingivitis, which is not really dangerous. All you have to do is visit your local dentist and practice good oral hygiene until you get rid of gingivitis. Don’t leave it like that.
It can worsen and become periodontitis. When gums and bones start to pull away from the teeth, periodontitis occurs. Food remains begin to gather in the newly formed pockets or spaces between the teeth and gums. Bacteria, which is always present in the mouth starts to act on this plaque.
As time goes on, the bacteria increases in number and begins to spread, causing a reaction from the body’s immune system. Enzymes are let loose to fight the spreading bacteria. As a result of this fight, toxins are released. These toxins destroy the connective tissues and bones that keep teeth in place.
Consequently, teeth begin to loosen. If periodontitis were to worsen, teeth become very loose and finally fall out. Findings show that periodontitis or gum disease is the main reason why tooth loss occurs among American adults. To prevent any kind of gum disease, take good care of not only your teeth but your gums as well !