Prioritize Your Gum Health with Hardin Family Dental

February 10, 2021

February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month, and here at Hardin Family Dental, we’re excited to raise awareness about the importance of gum health! While many people focus primarily on their teeth when considering oral health, your gums are just as essential. Healthy gums provide the foundation your teeth need to stay firmly in place. Without proper gum health, you risk not only oral complications but potentially serious overall health issues as well.

Gum disease is more than just an oral health issue—it can affect your entire body. This infection of the gum tissue has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and complications during pregnancy. Prioritizing your gum health means you’re also supporting your overall wellness. Gum disease occurs when bacteria in the mouth lead to inflammation and infection of the gums. Left untreated, this bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

Consistent brushing and flossing play a vital role in removing plaque buildup, helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy. At Hardin Family Dental, we encourage daily oral hygiene habits and regular check-ups to support long-lasting gum health.

Are Your Gums Healthy?

The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, which, without treatment, can progress to a more severe condition called periodontal disease. Consistent oral hygiene at home combined with regular dental cleanings at Hardin Family Dental are the key to maintaining strong, healthy gums. Professional cleanings can remove tartar (hardened plaque) that regular brushing cannot.

Between visits, stay alert to the symptoms of gum disease to catch any issues early.

7 Symptoms of Gum Disease

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule a visit to Hardin Family Dental:

Swollen or Puffy Gums
Bright Red or Bleeding Gums
Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
Persistent Bad Breath
Loose or Separating Teeth
Pus or Sores in the Mouth
Receding Gums

Detecting these symptoms early is crucial, as it allows for prompt treatment and prevents the progression to more severe stages of gum disease.

What Causes Gum Disease?

While poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of gum disease, other factors can also contribute. Here are some common causes:

Tobacco Use (Smoking or Chewing): Tobacco significantly increases the risk of gum disease.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can dry out the mouth and lead to increased bacterial growth.
Crowded or Misaligned Teeth: Misalignment makes it difficult to clean effectively, allowing plaque to build up.
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during pregnancy, can make gums more susceptible to disease.
Chronic Dry Mouth: Often caused by mouth breathing, dry mouth can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth.
High-Stress Levels: Stress affects the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Uncontrolled Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes increases susceptibility to infections, including gum disease.
Diet High in Sugar and Starch: Sugary foods feed the harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Skipping Regular Dental Visits: Neglecting routine cleanings allows plaque and tartar to build up, increasing your risk of gum disease.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Maintaining your gum health and preventing gum disease is all about improving daily habits. Here’s how you can keep your gums in top condition:

Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Waiting about 30 minutes after meals is ideal to avoid enamel erosion.
Floss Daily: Flossing removes debris and plaque between teeth and along the gumline, keeping your gums clean and healthy.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Schedule cleanings and exams every six months to prevent gum disease. If you notice any signs of gum disease, don’t hesitate to contact Hardin Family Dental for an evaluation.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A nutrient-rich diet supports both oral and overall health. Avoid sugary snacks and rinse with water after eating when brushing isn’t possible.
Quit Smoking: Tobacco use is a major contributor to gum disease. Quitting can improve your gum health significantly.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, keeping your teeth and gums cleaner.
Manage Stress: High-stress levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off gum infections.

What to Do if You Have Gum Disease

If you’re already experiencing symptoms of gum disease, don’t worry—there are effective treatments available to restore your gum health. At Hardin Family Dental, we offer several options based on the severity of the disease:

Professional Cleaning and Exam: For early-stage gum disease or gingivitis, regular professional cleanings can reverse the condition.
Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Gum Pocket Reduction Surgery: For advanced cases, surgery may be needed to reduce the size of deep gum pockets and prevent further damage.
Gum Grafts: When gum tissue has receded significantly, a graft can replace lost tissue and support the gums.
Medications: In some cases, our dentist may prescribe antibiotics, medicated toothpaste, or mouthwash to control bacteria and reduce infection.
Root Canal Therapy: If gum disease has affected the roots of the teeth, root canal therapy may be necessary to save the affected teeth.