Woman smiling shoeing white healthy looking teeth and gumsPut A Stop To Gum Disease: Monitor Your Mouth's Health Lyn Mensah

April  is National Oral health Month

Gum disease impacts dental and physical health, so take good care of your teeth and gums because your dental health affects your well-being. 

Your gum's physical condition has a bearing on the development of cardiovascular disease, your heart's health, and certain systemic diseases.

Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, in addition to poor oral hygiene habits. Gum disease can be gotten rid of if detected and diagnosed in its early stages. 

However, when plaque builds up on your teeth, it provides a place for bacteria and other microbes to live, breed, and thrive. The accumulation of plaque causes gingivitis, a condition where your gums become red, swollen, puffy, tender, and may bleed when you brush your teeth.

Gingivitis requires treatment, Because, if not dealt with, what crops up is periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease. Chronic gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. 

The inflammation associated with periodontitis stems from the plaque and tartar of gum disease. The inflammatory processes that travel to the heart increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke.

Periodontitis will progress, worsens, and become chronic. In periodontitis, gum ulceration develops, forming pockets around the teeth, swelling, and redness in the tissues around the teeth.

Symptoms: 

  • Persistent foul breath or 
  • A constant bad taste in your mouth. 
  • Sensitivity and bleeding gums.
  • In due course, your gums will pull away from the teeth, destroying the fibers and bone supporting your teeth. 

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the occurrence of bone and tooth loss. 

A healthy mouth is best for a healthy body. Pay special attention to your mouth care and the condition of your gums.

Mouthcare:

  • Healthy gums are pink in appearance and should be firm.
  • Practice good personal oral hygiene and include the use of dental floss every day.
  • Flossing helps to clean between the teeth to prevent dental plaque from gaining a foothold.
  • Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to keep your teeth and gums in excellent shape.

Healthy gums, great smiles.