Most people don’t pay much attention to their gums, prioritising the colour and cleanliness of their teeth. However, you should know that your gum health is a crucial part in having a beautiful smile, and bad gum health can potentially even have an effect on your physical health.
If you think you’re having problems with your gums, contact your dentist North Wales who can help you rectify the problem.
How do gums protect your teeth?
The gums are an amazing mechanism that are designed to protect your teeth and stop oral infections and diseases developing.
Gums are made up of soft skin that covers up the bones of your mouth and the top of your teeth. They seal the teeth, keeping them in place, and providing a barrier against bacterias getting in.
Without taking proper care of your gums, this bacteria and food particles could find a way in the
gums and sit around your teeth – eventually leading to gum disease.
How does gum disease affect your oral health?
Gum disease is also known as ‘periodontal disease’. A lot like your intestines, some of the bacteria in your mouth is good and some is bad. Maintaining your gums’ health is important, as it keeps the bad bacteria in check.
When your body responds to this bad bacteria, it causes inflammation. This inflammation works to destroy the gums, and is stimulated by the bad bacteria.
In severe cases, it can cause destruction of your teeth and the bone structure in the mouth.
How does gum disease affect your physical health?
The impact of periodontal disease can vary from being very mild, to very severe, like most infections in your body.
If the disease is severe, it can lead to tooth loss which can cause the bacteria to spread to other areas of the body.
Recently, research has found that people who suffer from periodontal disease have a higher risk of developing the following conditions:
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Cardiovascular disease
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Diabetes
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Chronic respiratory disease
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Dementia
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Complications in pregnancy
The link with these conditions and Periodontal disease is inflammation.
How do I prevent gum disease?
There are simple ways to prevent gingivitis (inflammation of gums) leading to periodontal disease. These things will also minimise symptoms if you are already suffering.
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day.
- Avoid smoking.
- Eat healthily.
- Go for regular dental check-ups.
- Learn the early signs of gum disease.
