When you go to the dentist, they don’t just examine your teeth. They also examine your cheeks, lips, head, neck, gums, tongue, and other mouth tissues for any visible signs of abnormalities. This is because oral health is connected to your overall health, and uncontrolled bacteria in the mouth can spread and affect other parts of the body. Caring for your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. Neglecting your gums can lead to severe gum diseases that harm oral health. To prevent this from happening, you should properly care for your gums by brushing twice per day with fluoride toothpaste, consistently flossing, and regularly visiting your dentist for a routine check-up. If you’re worried about your gum health, schedule a visit with our dedicated gum disease treatment dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ, who can help you take the necessary steps to improve your gum health.
Why does gum health matter?
It may come as a surprise, but your gums play a vital role in your mouth. Your gums are responsible for keeping your teeth secure in place. If they’re not healthy, this task becomes harder to accomplish. Unhealthy gums can lead to diseases that affect other parts of your body, as harmful bacteria can enter your bloodstream, negatively impacting your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to diabetes and heart disease. As such, it’s essential to prioritize your gum health.
Healthy gums minimize the risk of oral infections, tooth loss, and cavities. If you do not adequately care for your gums, you risk developing gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease. Typically, it causes irritation, redness, swelling, and bleeding of your gums. Gingivitis occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene. Left untreated, it can result in tooth loss and other severe conditions.
On the other hand, periodontitis is a more severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue around your teeth. This usually arises when gingivitis is left untreated. It typically causes the same symptoms as gingivitis, tooth sensitivity, pain while chewing, and receding gums. If left untreated, periodontitis can also lead to tooth loss. It can also progress to advanced periodontitis, which occurs when the gum tissue has been broken down so much that the bones that support the teeth have been destroyed. This can cause your teeth to loosen, requiring them to be removed. Ultimately, this can impact your speech and ability to chew.
As you can see, your gum health matters. If you have a gum disease, don’t leave it untreated. Contact our experienced dental professional at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, who can help you maintain your gum health to prevent gum disease.
