All About The Health Of Your Gums

Your gums are extremely important to your mouth. Throughout your entire life, your gums will help to support your teeth and distribute the weight of your bite in an efficient, effective way. If your gums are weakened, you could lose otherwise healthy teeth!

Gums are so important to humans that some dentists believe the main reason to brush your teeth is to stimulate the flow of blood to the gums. This blood flow helps ensure that the gums remain healthy and strong.

It is important to begin caring for the gums early in life. This is one important reason why kids should begin brushing their own teeth around age six. Although they will lose all of their “baby teeth” within six years, their gums will be with them for a lifetime.

What Common Issues Strike The Gums?

The most common issue someone might encounter with their gums is bleeding. While bleeding can be a sign of a serious problem, it can sometimes arise as the result of an improper brushing technique.

If your gums bleed immediately after brushing, you may have brushed too hard. You should evaluate the situation for a few days, brushing more gently and seeing if the issue persists. If it does, see a dentist.

One of the most severe issues that can happen with the gums is periodontal disease (“periodontal” refers to the gums — the “perimeter” of the teeth.) This is also known as gingivitis, which refers to the early stage of the disease.

During gum disease, the gums become inflamed. Bleeding of the gums becomes much more likely. In the early stage, the damage is not irreversible. If untreated, however, gingivitis will develop into full periodontal disease, where tooth enamel and bone may be eroded.

How Can I Support Gum Health?

Your gums are revitalized each time you brush your teeth. As a result, it’s important to brush every day. In addition to brushing your teeth, you might gently massage the gums to promote better blood circulation.

One of the keys to the health of your gums is flossing. While some people think of flossing as difficult and painful, it is very easy once you get used to it. It can help you remove debris from between teeth that can irritate gums.

The health of your gums is one of your most important assets when it comes to long-term dental health. To help your teeth and gums stay at their best, just call or email Stony Brook Family Dentistry right now. We have helped thousands around Long Island to get a better smile!