Why Is Gum Health So Important?

Although it may not seem like it, a person's gum health is vital for the health of his or her entire body. The gums are not only soft tissue as they have a bone structure under them. Gums are meant to keep peoples' teeth securely in their mouths. When a person's gums are not healthy, this can create all sorts of problems in the short-term and long-term.

It is possible to keep gums healthy by going to a dentist twice a year as part of a normal plan of maintenance. Away from professional care, brushing twice daily: once upon waking up and again before going to bed as well as flossing at least once per day. Even better would be to brush and floss after every meal, but that is often not an option for some people. During these times, rinsing the mouth or chewing sugar-free gum can help to get rid of any food particles from the crevices inside of the mouth. For those who drink tea, opt for green tea as this type of tea has properties that promote healthy oral health, thanks to the many antioxidants this type of tea has.

Healthy gums help improve the overall condition of a person's body. Healthy gums do not show any kind of irritation or inflammation that is common to unhealthy gums. A person who notices symptoms like these regarding his or her gums should contact a dentist who can determine the source of the problem and treat the issue. Some of these treatments can include antibiotics, which can eliminate the infections quickly.

The way to healthy gums

Here are some of the way to promote proper gum health:

• Eat the proper fruits and vegetables
• Choose only lean meats
• Get plenty of calcium through dairy products
• Choose water rather than soft drinks and fruit juices
• Drink green tea rather than black tea or coffee
• Stay away from candy and too much sugar
• Do not take drugs, which can include limiting your prescription medication (talk to a pharmacist consultant and doctor before you limit any medications)
• Do not start smoking or quit the habit, if possible
• Drink alcohol only in moderation
• Brush and floss twice a day
• Get regular dental checkups
• Use proper protection for teeth if playing contact sports

Issues that can cause trauma to a person's gums

Be sure to visit a dentist to get teeth and gums checked out if any of these issues are present:

• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
• Nighttime teeth grinding
• Cavities
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Missing teeth
• Irritated gums

Gum health is a good indication of how a person's overall health is, and visiting the dentist at proper intervals is essential. Make an appointment today to get on the road to proper gum health.

Call Robert S. Sykes, DDS today at (770) 873-7241 for information on gum health.

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