Your gums are the foundation for a healthy smile. When they’re healthy, they support your teeth and protect against infections. But when gum disease—also called periodontal disease—sets in, it can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated. The good news? With the right self-care habits, you can prevent and manage gum disease effectively.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease starts as gingivitis, a mild inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gum line. If not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria and cause bone loss.
FUN FACTS: The word gingivitis comes from the latin word for gums–gingivis. And, the word periodontitis is even simpler; it comes from the Greek word “peri” (meaning around) and the Greek word “odont” (meaning the tooth).
Signs to Watch For:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums. Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that are pulling away from teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see your dentist early.
Self-Care Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy
-
Brush Twice a Day
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and gums. Be sure to brush along the gum line where plaque tends to build up.
-
Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth and below the gum line where your toothbrush can’t reach.
-
Use OraRestore Essential Oil from Great Oral Health
OraRestore is a clinically formulated essential oil blend designed to support gum health by targeting harmful bacteria that contribute to gum disease. Using essential oils like OraRestore as part of your daily routine can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritated gums, and promote a balanced oral microbiome.
-
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Maintain a healthy diet by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit sugary snacks and drinks, as sugar feeds harmful bacteria.
-
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and slows down healing. Quitting improves your gum health dramatically.
-
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria and keeps saliva flowing, which protects your gums naturally.
-
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings and check-ups. Early treatment can prevent serious damage.
When to See a Professional
If your gums bleed frequently, feel sore, or you notice persistent bad breath, make an appointment with your dentist. They can provide treatments like deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), prescribe medicated mouth rinses, or recommend other therapies to stop gum disease in its tracks.
Bonus tip: Another common reason for gum recession is night grinding. This is often not caught but can contribute to the gums pulling back from the pressure being applied while you sleep. The solution is super simple. Ask your dentist for a night guard and wear it nightly while you sleep.
Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD, runs a successful dental practice in Salem, MA. Dr. Isaac strives for quality on a daily basis and this commitment to quality is reflected in her constant pursuit of advanced training. Her firm belief that even experts need to stay updated about what’s new in the dental field, enables her to provide every patient with optimal oral care. As the founder of Coral Dental Care, she is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for her patients and also to educating dental and non-dental community with her engaging articles on all things related to oral health, recent dental innovations, and latest treatment modalities.