Gum disease is a common oral health issue. In fact, nearly half of adults aged 30 and older in the United States experience some form of gum disease. The condition affects the gums and supporting structures around your teeth. The condition can be mild to severe, so early intervention is key when it comes to reducing your risk for other oral and overall health issues. Below you will find how your gums affect your smile and what steps you can take to keep them healthy.
How Your Gums Affect Your Smile
Gum disease can impact your smile in a number of ways. Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that starts with a buildup of bacterial plaque. This leads to inflammation in your gums and even tooth loss if left untreated. It can also come with a number of other unwanted symptoms. Consider the following ways the health of your gums can affect your smile.
Recession:
This is a common symptom associated with advanced gum disease. In fact, advanced gum disease can actually cause your gums to recede or pull away from your teeth. This can result in exposed tooth roots which make your teeth look much longer than they are. In addition, it can cause intense sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This is why early intervention is key when it comes to gum disease. Periodontic gum treatment can help address the damage, so contact a dental professional right away for support.
Inflammation:
Inflammation and redness on your gums can impact your smile. These are some of the common signs of gum disease. They can also be accompanied by tenderness, bleeding, and even embarrassment. These are early signs of gum disease so seeking treatment from a dental professional can help ensure you maintain your smile confidence.
Tooth Loss:
Untreated advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease causes destruction of the supporting structures around your teeth, including your gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbone. Tooth loss not only affects the functionality of your smile but also creates gaps that can impact your chewing ability and overall self-confidence. This can be difficult as you will have to treat both your gum disease and find an effective tooth replacement option. A cosmetic dentist near you in Burbank can help get your oral health back on track and improve the look of your smile.
Caring For Your Gums
Caring for your oral health includes paying close attention to the health of your gums. Consider the following tips to ensure your gums stay healthy.
- Oral Care Routine: A consistent daily oral care routine is key when it comes to keeping your gums healthy. This involves brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss at least once a day to remove debris and bacteria from the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Talk with your dentist about products and techniques that are right for your unique oral health needs.
- Regular Dental Visits: It is recommended that you visit the dentist at least every six months. However, those with a history of gum disease or tooth decay need to visit more often. This is generally around every three months but can vary depending on your needs. Talk with your dentist about when and how often you should visit.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Living a healthy lifestyle is key to ensuring the health of your gums. This includes eating a balanced diet, regularly exercising, avoiding smoking, limiting your alcohol consumption, managing your stress, and staying hydrated. This will not only improve the health of your gums, but your oral and overall health as well.