Does Gum Care Play an Important Role in General Dentistry?

Though many people think of teeth when they hear about dentistry, the truth is that the field takes care of all aspects of oral health, including the gums. In fact, caring for your gums is an essential part of oral hygiene.

What is gum care?

Your gums need cleaning, just like your teeth. However, since they are more delicate than teeth, you need to take special care during the process.

Flossing

Flossing is a step many people skip, but it is essential for healthy gums. Because teeth are so close together, brushing cannot get all the food particles stuck in the narrow space between them. Flossing dislodges these particles.

When you floss, make sure you curve the thread along the tooth's side in a "C" shape. This movement allows you to clean every part of the tooth. You should also avoid slipping floss beneath the gums, as this can cause bleeding and even receding.

Brushing

Dentistry experts advise brushing your teeth after flossing. That way, you clean away the dislodged food particles.

When brushing your teeth, you should avoid applying too much pressure, which can irritate and even damage gums. It would be best if you also stuck to soft-bristle brushes, as firmer options are more likely to hurt this sensitive part of your mouth.

What happens if you do not practice proper gum care?

Failure to regularly clean your teeth and gums can have a significant impact on your oral health. In addition, dental issues compound over time, so the longer you go without care, the worse the outcome will be.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis (also called gum disease) can be painful and lead to bigger issues if not treated. The following are signs you have this condition:

• Swollen gums
• Redness
• Bleeding

Bacteria are the root cause of gingivitis. They feed off plaque and attack both teeth and gums. The good news is, if you have a mild case of gingivitis, you can treat it with better oral hygiene practices.

Periodontitis

If you do not address gingivitis, then it can become periodontitis. This condition is characterized by receding gums, which leave your teeth vulnerable to worse damage. In addition, if bacteria settle into the pockets between your teeth and gums, they can attack the underlying tissues. In the worst-case scenario, you can even develop a bone infection.

Should your jaw bone become infected, you may need surgery. If bacteria are allowed to run rampant, they can eat away your bones, gums, and teeth, resulting in massive tooth loss. Repairing this damage can be a long and expensive process.