We all know that gums bleed and there are various toothpastes, mouthwashes available to help with this, but in reality, they shouldn’t. If your gums are healthy, they will not bleed and that is something we should all aspire to.
Bleeding gums, although common, are not healthy. They are a sign of gum disease, of which there are two types. Gingivitis, which is reversible and Periodontitis, which can be controlled, but can lead to tooth loss.
It’s more than your smile at stake. Periodontitis is linked with many chronic diseases e.g. diabetes, heart disease, dementia and shares common risk factors with other non-communicable diseases e.g smoking.
Statistics make it likely that the majority reading this post, will experience bleeding gums in some way, shape or form at some point in their lives. So, what next?? Think of your gums (and the bone under them) as the foundations for your teeth. If the foundations aren’t healthy everything above may fail. No-one wants to lose teeth, so how can they be saved? There are a range of things that can be done to reduce the chance of severe gum disease and tooth loss, but the most important? Effective and consistent oral hygiene to control the bacterial plaque biofilm.
Your oral hygiene routine is key to the health of your mouth and gums. Make sure that you clean between your teeth, at least once a day BEFORE brushing. Then, brush your teeth and gumline with fluoride toothpaste and spit it out, don’t rinse with water. Leave the fluoride on your teeth to work its magic!
Visit your dental team regularly. They can spot the early signs of gum disease and help control gingivitis before it develops into periodontitis which involves the underlying bone. Your dentist may recommend regular hygiene appointments to remove plaque build-up and tartar from your teeth and gum line.
If you smoke, it’s is strongly recommended that you give up. Smoking greatly increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Keep well and eat a healthy diet to get vitamins and minerals that support healthy gums and teeth. If your mouth is dry, take extra care as plaque bacteria can develop rapidly in a dry mouth.
There are also products which help support gum health such as mouthwash and toothpaste. Mouthwash, such as Curasept ADS Perio, has an anti-bacterial effect, as well as containing hyaluronic acid to promote gum healing. Mouthwash should be used at a different time of the day from brushing, e.g. after a meal. Using mouthwash is not an alternative to doing the basics (cleaning between and toothbrushing) well. It’s an extra step that can help, especially if you are at increased risk of gum disease. Speak to your dental team or oral health coach for personalised advice.
For further information on gum disease and how to reduce your chances of experiencing tooth loss click here.
Remember, healthy gums don’t bleed.
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