When we think about oral health, often, our first thoughts drift to our teeth as they are the first thing anyone notices about your smile. However, a genuinely radiant smile owes just as much to the vibrancy of your gums and the health that lies therein. At Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants in Parker, Colorado, and Periodontics of Cherry Creek in Glendale, Colorado, our periodontists take caring for your smile seriously through gum health care for all.
Dr. Maryanne Butler and Dr. Amy Riffel offer an array of periodontal services at our offices in Parker and Glendale and work to ensure that each patient has healthy gums. If you’ve neglected the tender tissues that frame your smile, now’s your chance to turn over a new leaf in your dental health regimen.
Understanding Gum Health
Why Gum Health Is More Than Just a Footnote to Good Dental Care
Neglecting gum care can lead to problems, from mild irritation to more severe conditions, such as periodontitis, resulting in tooth loss. Common issues like gingivitis are often the early symptoms of declining gum health, signaling the need for better oral care practices.
The Impact of Poor Gum Health
Untreated gum issues can lead to chronic bad breath, bleeding, receding gums, and even systemic health concerns such as heart disease and diabetes. Therefore, by addressing gum health with our periodontal treatments, Dr. Butler and Dr. Riffel can help restore or manage unhealthy gums. Treatments we offer include:
Tips for Healthy Gums: Mastering the Basics
- The Art of Brushing Right: Haphazard brushing can be just as detrimental as not brushing at all, especially regarding gum health. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the teeth and massage the gums gently is crucial. Plaque can build up along the gum line, leading to irritation, bleeding and gum disease. Ensure you’re making gentle, circular motions along the gum line to dislodge plaque and prevent its growth.
- Flossing—The Unsung Hero of Oral Hygiene: Flossing is not just a good idea but a daily essential. Flossing reaches the spaces your toothbrush bristles can’t and prevents plaque from hardening into tartar, a stubborn substance that Dr. Butler and Dr. Riffel can only remove. When plaque and tartar are left unchecked, it can lead to gum disease. Using a Waterpik to flush the pockets is also very helpful, especially if you have larger spaces between the teeth that cause food impaction.
- Regular Dental Visits to Keep Your Gums in Check: An essential aspect of gum health is a routine professional cleaning, which scrapes off hardened plaque and tartar. Dr. Butler and Dr. Riffel can also offer personalized advice on better care for your gums at home, which could be invaluable in preventing severe conditions. Depending on your needs, 3-month, 4-month, or 6-month cleaning intervals will be recommended.
Tricks to Improve Gum Health
The Mouthwash Matchup
Mouthwashes can be a beneficial adjunct to your oral care routine. Look for those with antimicrobial properties, particularly those with chlorhexidine, which can reduce the bacteria in your mouth that cause gum disease. However, it’s important to note that mouthwash should not be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing; instead, think of it as an extra layer of protection for your gums.
Nutrition for Nurtured Gums
What you eat can significantly impact your gum health. Nutrients like Vitamin C and K contribute to the preservation of the integrity of your gum tissue, while low-fat dairy can aid in fortifying tooth and bone structure. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, which are natural sources of antioxidants and nutrients, can help stave off gum issues.
Stress Less for Healthier Gums
Believe it or not, stress can manifest in your mouth, leading to clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism), which can be hard on your gums. Finding ways to alleviate stress, whether through meditation, exercise, or picking up a hobby, can indirectly lead to healthier gums and improved overall health.
Gum Health Care in Colorado
Caring for your gums is not just a side thought; it is a necessity that ensures the health of your smile as a whole. At Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants and Periodontics of Cherry Creek, we strive to provide the best care for each patient through periodontal treatments. With ways to care for your gums at home, you can take the necessary steps to ensure their health with the added care from our periodontists. Begin your journey to care for your gums by scheduling a consultation with our team today!
