Healthy gums
Sensitive foundation for our teeth
Estimated reading time: 3 min.
The gums protect our teeth and ensure, among other things, that they stay in place. Reason enough to carefully care not only for the teeth, but also for the gums. Otherwise, the gums may recede over time or become noticeable through bleeding gums or painful gingivitis. At the latest then it is time for the right gum care: But what is the best way to ensure healthy gums?
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Why are healthy gums important?
Gums have two important jobs: They keep our teeth in place and protectively cover deeper structures. As part of the oral mucosa, it has a particularly strong blood supply and is more sensitive to pain than our outer skin. Inflammations or injuries to the gums are therefore not only particularly unpleasant, they can also impair the protective function in the long term.
This makes proper gum care all the more important: Healthy gums can be recognized, among other things, by the fact that they tightly enclose the necks of the teeth and have a pale pink color. If the gums are swollen red, sensitive to pain or even bleeding, then it is probably an inflammation in the oral cavity.
Consequences of inadequate gum care
Like our entire body, our oral cavity is also colonized with bacteria. If the bacteria stick to the teeth, plaque develops. Daily brushing and gum care removes plaque early.
If this is not the case, the bacteria can multiply and spread between the tooth and gum. There they release toxins to which our immune system reacts. The result is inflammation of the gums. Such inflammation is often a warning sign that you should take better care of your oral hygiene. Thanks to careful gum care, the inflammation can subside. If this is not the case, you should seek dental advice.
What is the danger of unhealthy gums?
The bacteria and the inflammation continue to spread. This not only promotes tooth decay and tartar, but in the worst case, deep-seated structures under the gums are also attacked. In periodontitis, the gum pockets enlarge and the gums eventually recede.
It can no longer fulfill its retaining and protective function. This disease can spread to the periodontium or other parts of the body and lead to tooth loss. Careful cleaning of the gums at the dentist can curb periodontitis.
How to strengthen the gums?
The best chance for healthy gums and beautiful teeth is to prevent bacteria from settling on the tooth, so the cycle of tooth and gum problems doesn't start in the first place. Regular oral hygiene is therefore elementary for our oral health. In addition to consistent oral hygiene, this also includes regular visits to the dentist. Signs of inflammation or pain should not be ignored to prevent the gums from receding.
11 tips for healthy gums
Thorough and regular oral hygiene of teeth and gums
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles
Use dental floss and possibly interdental brushes
Additionally stop bacteria with a mouth rinse
Massage gums if necessary to stimulate blood circulation
Ensure an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C.
Chewy foods stimulate gums and saliva flow
Semi-annual check-ups with the dentist
Oil pulling against pathogens in the mouth, e.g. with tea tree or coconut oil
Professional teeth cleaning if needed
Eat a healthy diet and consume as little sugar as possible
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, low stress - everyone knows this advice for a healthy body. What is sometimes overlooked in the process: Oral hygiene is also an elementary part of a healthy lifestyle. Our teeth and gums are just as much a part of our body as other organs - and can influence it accordingly. Proper oral hygiene makes sense at any time and is not that difficult.
Doing something good for irritated gums
In the event of persistent inflammation of the gums, a visit to the dentist is recommended in any case to clarify the cause. Until then, home remedies such as gargling with chamomile or sage tea are also suitable. Alternatively, you can apply the moist tea bag to the affected area. Likewise, cold can have an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect.
To stimulate blood circulation, you can also gently massage the gums. Brushing your teeth or chewing hard foods will produce a similar effect. However, be gentle when doing this, after all, you don't want to injure the gums when massaging. If you do not irritate the oral mucosa, you can also use a little essential oils to massage the gums. For example, tea tree oil can be dabbed on the irritated areas of the gums. It becomes antiseptic and helps fight inflammation.
Healthy gums protect and hold teeth in place, making an important contribution to oral health. Thanks to careful gum care, we can enjoy a bright smile for a long time to come.
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