When we think of a beautiful smile, images of dazzling white teeth might come to mind. Although shimmering teeth are a critical part of having a pristine smile, gum health is equally as important to not only having optimal oral health but also protecting how your teeth appear.
Let us examine why you need to keep your gums healthy and how you can maintain them for the happiest smile possible.
Why gum health is just as important as tooth health
You might not notice them when you see someone smile, but the truth is that without healthy gums, you cannot have a healthy smile.
That is because the gums support tooth structure, helping to hold them in place and serving as a foundation for tooth roots. Gums also play a role in overall well-being by acting as a protective barrier between the harmful bacteria in the mouth and the bone and bloodstream. Without healthy gums, bacteria can spread throughout the body, causing internal inflammation and other unpleasant health conditions.
Our best gum care tips
Gum care is quite simple and can be integrated into your daily routine without much extra effort. The reward will be a strong, healthy smile that can last a lifetime.
Here are five simple steps for strong gums.
- Gently brush at least twice per day
Healthy gums start with your toothbrush. Hold a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and use gentle, circular motions to cover all surfaces of your teeth and gums. Pay particular attention to the gumline, where food particles may be trapped and where bacteria can collect.
Avoid scrubbing your gums too hard, as doing so can lead to gum recession. Brushing your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath can further support your oral health.
- Flossing for gum health
Flossing at least once daily is also critical to gum health. It removes particles and plaque between teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth, especially between them and along the gumline. A buildup of plaque can lead to gum inflammation, a condition called gingivitis. If left unchecked, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss.
- Nutrition for strong gums
What you consume also affects gum health. Many foods contain the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain healthy gums and promote beautiful smiles.
Here are some examples of what you should be eating and why:
Citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries, and kale
These wholesome foods are rich in vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant is essential for collagen synthesis, which helps maintain healthy gums and connective tissues and supports the body’s natural defences against infection.
Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese) and leafy green vegetables
These natural sources of calcium strengthen teeth and bones and help prevent gum disease. If you do not consume dairy, you can substitute it with calcium-fortified plant-based milk and alternate dairy products.
Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), nuts and seeds
The omega-3 fatty acids contained in fatty fish and certain nuts and seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce gum inflammation and support optimal gum health.
Other essential nutrients for good dental health include vitamin D and phosphorus, which help calcium strengthen teeth and bones, and vitamin K, which aids in gum tissue healing by regulating blood clotting and bone metabolism.
- Drink water to prevent gum issues
Drinking water helps flush out food particles and bacteria from our mouths, which is vital to protecting teeth and gums from damage.
Water also supports saliva production, which is crucial to keeping our mouths clean and preventing dry mouth, which can promote bacteria growth and lead to bad breath.
Remember: not all beverages are created equal. Pop and “sports” drinks can leave sugar behind to grow into plaque. If you drink something sugary, rinse your mouth with water as soon as possible to keep your mouth clean between brushings.
- See your dentist about gum health
You should visit your dentist at least twice per year for regular examinations and cleanings. However, if you are having problems with your gums between visits, we recommend making an appointment before the problem gets worse.
This is especially true if you notice your gums are red, tender, puffy, or swollen. You should also see your dentist if your gums are bleeding, especially when you are brushing or flossing. Gum recession, which is when your gums are pulling away and exposing more of your teeth, is another warning sign that your dentist should address.
Other gum-related problems requiring a visit to your dentist’s office could include loose teeth, persistent bad breath, pain when chewing, or any discharge at the gum line.
Enjoy optimal gum care at Yonge Eglinton Dental
Gum disease progresses silently, so early detection and intervention at your dentist’s office are crucial to preventing further issues, such as tooth loss, which can severely impact your smile and self-confidence.
If you are experiencing any issues with your gums, we would love to help you at Yonge Eglinton Dental. Our team will examine your teeth and gums thoroughly, looking for signs of gum disease and measuring the depth of the gum pockets. We may also recommend taking X-rays to assess bone loss beneath the gum line.
If we find any areas of concern, we will discuss all appropriate treatment options and recommend a plan for maintaining good oral hygiene.
At Yonge Eglinton Dental, we prioritize protecting your gums, teeth, and oral health so you can share a bright, beautiful smile with the world. It all starts by getting in touch with our office to start a new oral healthcare journey.
Enjoy healthy gums and a happy smile with help from the dental experts at Yonge Eglinton Dental in Toronto
Talk to our dental health team when you are ready to optimize your oral health. We will work together to ensure your teeth and gums look great and are as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment for an office visit today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!
Are you concerned about visiting the dentist? Read about how we protect the health and safety of our patients and staff so your family can seek proper dental care with peace of mind.
