There’s more to oral hygiene than just cleaning your teeth. It’s equally important that you don’t forget the gums! The gums are where bacteria and plaque can linger, causing inflammation and disease if they’re neglected. And, the health of your gums can impact the health of your entire body. So if you’ve forgotten to include the gums in your oral hygiene sessions, here are some reasons why you should never forget.
Prevent Gum Disease
When plaque and bacteria are left to fester along the gum line, gradually over time they can cause inflammation of the gums and eventually gum disease. Gingivitis, which is the first step of gum disease, is irreversible once it progresses. Gum disease can then begin to cause damage to the bones and fibres, which hold your teeth in place. Eventually, it could cause significant damage, causing teeth to fall out.
Safeguard Your Overall Health
Did you know that the condition of your gums can dramatically influence the health of your entire body? Oral health plays a major role in keeping your body healthy since plaque and inflammation are major contributors to disease and other ailments. This occurs when the bacteria in your mouth enters the bloodstream, which in turn gives access to important major organs. Many studies have shown that plaque, bacteria, and bleeding gums are linked other serious problems in the body that can develop as a result. Heart disease, dementia, diabetes, and even premature births have all been linked to gum and periodontal disease.
Flossing each and every day and taking good care of your gums when brushing is imperative for the health of your entire body.
Attend Regular Cleanings & Check-ups
Aside from brushing and flossing your gums each day, attending cleanings and check-ups when recommended by your dentist is also an important way to keep up with good oral hygiene. If you notice red, swollen or bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. They can talk to you about any concerns and advise you on better practices for safeguarding your gums and oral health.
When you’re brushing, it’s easy enough to forget about the gums. But your gums play a major role in keeping your mouth and body healthy and disease-free. So the next time you go to brush your teeth, don’t forget to aim that brush gently along the gumline and to floss afterward too.
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