The Importance Of Healthy Gums
Our gums aren’t always visible when we smile, so why are they so important? Well, these little pink strips of tissue do quite a lot for our teeth, and it’s important to look after them with the greatest possible care. Today, our experts at our dental practice (serving Lancaster and beyond) will touch on the importance of healthy gums and offer tips for looking after them in the future.
Protection against bacteria
A soft, squidgy seal for your teeth – as well as their roots and the underlying jaw bone – your gums seal the teeth against the very bacteria that can cause disease and decay. The better and stronger the seal, the fewer bacteria can get through and cause an issue.
Support for your smile
With every tooth rooted in your gums, there’s less chance of them wobbling about when eating, chewing and biting. Of course, with gum disease or recession comes a greater probability of tooth loss. That’s why it’s important to identify it (and fix it) early.
A barrier to your body
Once infection takes hold in your tooth or gum, there’s a possibility that it can spread around your body. In this way, your gums are almost like the first line of defence against bad bacteria.
Tips for healthy gums
Now you know how important your gums are, let’s talk about maintaining their health.
– Stop the sugar: Limit what you eat and drink, as bacteria in the mouth thrive on sugar and produce acid in the process (which breaks down tooth enamel). Acids can affect your smile long after you’ve finished eating, sometimes by as much as 20 minutes. And, there’s a greater risk of developing disease from a higher sugar intake.
– Boost vitamin intake: Vitamin C (most famously found in oranges) is crucial for the gums and teeth, as it helps with regeneration. Vitamin D (found mainly in sunlight, but also in fatty fish and – somewhat surprisingly – portobello mushrooms) can help with improving bone density. And we’ve all heard how calcium (found in milk, cheese, cabbage and more) strengthens the teeth and bones, too.
– Attend twice-yearly check-ups: These keep an eye on all elements of oral health, as well as allow you to pursue other treatments, and get tips and advice on oral care products.
– Stop smoking: This has been linked to gum disease and periodontitis. If you’re having trouble quitting, start by cutting down, and talk to our dentists (near Lancaster) for tips and advice.
