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Keeping Your Gums Healthy

Our gums provide critical support for our teeth. But when gum tissue becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to serious oral health issues. In this post we’ll unpack the most common gum diseases, their causes, and how to prevent them.s chair. But since our oral health impacts overall well-being, routine dental exams and professional cleanings are vital. Maintaining regular checkups provides multiple beneficial effects and could avoid to see Emergency Dentist.

Gingivitis - The Early Stage

Gingivitis represents mild early gum disease with inflammation restricted to gums around the base of teeth. It is most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene allowing plaque to accumulate along the gumline. Symptoms include reddened, swollen, or tender gums that may bleed slightly when brushing or flossing. While gingivitis itself doesn’t destroy gum tissue, research confirms it frequently leads to more severe infection called periodontitis if left unchecked. The good news is gingivitis can be reversed through improved daily cleaning routines.  Watch for warning signs like recurrent bad breath or receding gums which indicate a need for prompt dental examination and treatment.

Periodontitis - Advanced Infection

Periodontitis occurs when untreated gingivitis progresses deeper. Inflammation extends down tooth roots and destroys fibres and bone securing teeth in place. This erosion of support structures makes teeth loose and at risk of loss.


Additional periodontitis symptoms include gums tender to touch, sore/bleeding gums, shifting teeth, changes in bite alignment, and persistent bad breath. Underlying causes include plaque buildup, food trapped under the gumline, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and certain medications.


See a dentist immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms. Early treatment is key to saving tissue before extensive damage. This may involve deep cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar.

Keeping Gums Healthy

Prevent gum infection by brushing gently twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing to disrupt plaque. Get professional cleanings every 6 months.

Also, limit sugary/acidic drinks and foods which erode enamel protection.
Catching and controlling gum inflammation early on provides the best chance for reversing issues. But once extensive bone/tissue loss occurs, periodontitis damage cannot be undone.

This makes ongoing prevention critical for reducing the necessity of tooth removal down the road. Don’t ignore sore, inflamed, or bleeding gums which signal your gum health requires attention, emergency dental care may require if symptoms get worse with sore gums and infections. With proper daily care and dental treatment, you can keep your gums in good shape. Healthy gums equal healthy teeth!

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