How to Know If Your Gums Are Healthy

Many discussions regarding oral care focus on cavity prevention, but the reality is that your gums are just as important. These tissues protect your tooth roots and jawbone from exposure to bacteria or other debris, and they help secure your teeth in place.

Unhealthy gums can impact the overall health of your mouth. Gum disease, for instance, can lead to bad breath, infections, loose teeth, and even permanent tooth loss.

So, how do you know if your gums are healthy or if they need a little attention? Here, Mehrnoosh Darj, DDS, and the team at Dr. Darj Dental in El Paso, Texas, discuss the top signs that your gums are healthy and the top signs that they aren’t. 

Healthy gums versus unhealthy gums

You can tell a lot about your gums just by visually inspecting them. Healthy gums should be light pink and firm. There shouldn’t be any gaps between your gums and teeth, and your gums shouldn’t bleed when you brush them. 

Unhealthy gums may appear red, swollen, and inflamed. They might feel tender or bleed when you brush them. Bleeding is often one of the first signs of gingivitis, the earliest form of gum disease. 

Unhealthy gums may also start to recede from your teeth. These gaps are called periodontal pockets, and the severity of these gaps can indicate how advanced your gum disease is.

Tips for keeping your gums healthy

Are your gums pink and firm? If so, great! These tips can continue to help keep your gums in tip-top shape:

• Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day 
• Floss daily (it’s one of the best methods for removing plaque from along your gumline)
• Use proper flossing technique; never snap floss against your gums
• Add plenty of vitamin-C rich foods into your diet 
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth
• Manage underlying conditions, such as diabetes, that can exacerbate gum issues
• Avoid smoking (or consider smoking cessation if you do smoke)
• Replace worn-out toothbrushes, as damaged bristles can harm delicate gum tissue

The best way to keep your gums healthy is to remove the bacteria and plaque that contribute to the development of gum disease. 

What if you spot the signs of gum disease?

Despite your best efforts, you might still notice signs of gum trouble. If your gums are now more red than pink or if they bleed when you brush your teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Darj. 

Like most conditions, gum disease is easier to treat in the earliest stages. In fact, gingivitis can sometimes be reversed with a renewed commitment to oral care. Typical gingivitis treatments include brushing and flossing, using a mouthwash, and receiving a dental cleaning. 

The best practices for brushing to improve gum health include:

• Using a toothbrush with soft bristles
• Holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle when you brush at the gumline
• Use toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance 
• Brush twice a day — or after each meal
• Use tools, such as interdental flossers, to remove plaque where brushing alone can’t

More advanced gum disease may require other treatments, such as scaling and root planing. Scaling is a type of deep clean in which we remove plaque and tartar from below your gums, while root planing is a procedure designed to smooth your gums and promote healing. 

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, you may require antibiotics or a prescription mouthwash. Rest assured that Dr. Darj is an expert at diagnosing and treating gum disease and guides you based on your specific needs.

Gum disease treatments can improve your oral health and help prevent tooth loss. If you have concerns about gum health, call our office today at 915-213-4097 to schedule a visit. You can also book an appointment online.