Oral health goes beyond how well you take care of your teeth. When you come in for a dental checkup, one of the first things we do at Dental Image Therapy Centres is take a look at your gums. Your gums are a crucial indicator of your health, and it is important to know what signs are considered healthy vs. unhealthy.

Characteristics of Healthy Gums

·     Pink, uniform colour (can be darker in some cases depending on ethnicity)

·     Firm texture

·     Gums do not bleed during brushing and flossing

·     Gums surround top and bottom teeth in a curved shape

Characteristics of Unhealthy Gums

·     Gums that regularly bleed or are constantly inflamed

·     Consistent bad breath

·     Shifting or loosening adult teeth

·     Pus is released when pressure is applied to gums

One important thing to watch for is severe buildup of plaque on your teeth, which can cause gingivitis. This causes uncomfortable irritation and inflammation of the gums. Severe inflammation can cause gum disease (periodontitis). It is crucial to recognize the symptoms above to prevent your teeth from entering a more serious stage of gum disease. Untreated gingivitis can also lead to other health concerns like increased complications in diabetes, heart diseases or respiratory diseases.

Common Causes of Unhealthy Gums

·     Poor diet

·     Poor oral hygiene

·     Smoking

·     Stress

It is important to note that gum disease is preventable by keeping up with a consistent and healthy oral routine. This includes regular brushing, flossing and attending routine dental check-ups.

The good news is that it’s never too late to improve your gum health. While periodontitis disease isn’t reversible, gingivitis is, and is treated with products specifically targeted towards gingivitis prevention and treatment. The variety of products available on the market range from specific gum-health toothpaste to mouthwashes that ensure your gums are in the best possible state. If your gum disease has progressed past gingivitis, your dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works for you and your gums.  

Our Winnipeg dentists are here to guide you through the process of improving your gum health and recommend the products best suited for your oral health goals. If you suspect you may have gum disease or are consistently experiencing any of the above symptoms, book an appointment today.

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