What is gum protection and why is it important?
Gum protection is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. The gums play a crucial role in supporting the teeth and protecting the surrounding bone base. Healthy gums are a key indicator of overall oral health, and can prevent the development of diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Taking care of your gums is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a necessity to prevent pain, infection and tooth loss.
How can I identify the signs of gum disease?
Signs of gum disease include:
We recommend consulting a dentist if these symptoms appear regularly.
What are the best practices for gum protection?
For optimum protection of your gums, adopt the following practices:
How does smoking affect gum health?
Smoking is strongly linked to the incidence of gum disease. Smokers are more likely to produce plaque, which increases the risk of gum inflammation. In addition, smoking can impede the tissue healing process, making treatment of gum disease less effective and slowing the natural repair of oral tissues.
Can gum damage be reversed?
Yes, it is possible to treat and often reverse gum damage, especially in the early stages of disease. Treatments vary according to the severity of the disease and can include deeper professional cleanings, called scaling and root planing, as well as medications to control infection and regenerate lost tissue. Adopting good oral hygiene practices is also crucial to the recovery and future protection of the gums.
What role does diet play in gum health?
Diet plays a vital role in gum health. Eating foods rich in essential nutrients can help strengthen gums and prevent disease. Vitamins C and D are particularly important, as they contribute to gum health and tissue regeneration. Foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, also strengthen bones and dental structures. It is advisable to avoid sugars and acidic foods, which promote plaque and gum damage.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root plan ing are professional dental treatments designed to thoroughly clean the roots of the teeth and under the gums. These procedures are generally recommended for patients suffering from periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar accumulated above and below the gum line, while root planing involves smoothing the roots of the teeth to promote re-adherence of the gums to the teeth, thus reducing the depth of periodontal pockets.
How can pregnant women protect their gums?
Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to gum problems due to hormonal changes that can increase gum sensitivity. Pregnant women are advised to maintain an excellent oral care routine, including regular brushing, flossing and frequent dental visits for professional cleanings. This minimizes the risk of gum inflammation and other pregnancy-related complications, such as gravid gingivitis.
What are the benefits of using an antibacterial mouthwash?
Using an antibacterial mouthwash can effectively complement brushing and flossing. Mouthwashes contain antibacterial agents that help reduce plaque, control the growth of harmful bacteria and reduce gum inflammation. They can also help freshen breath and prevent infection. However, it's important to choose an alcohol-free mouthwash, as alcohol can dry out the mouth, potentially increasing the risk of gum disease.
Why is it important to treat gingivitis at its earliest signs?
Treating gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease, at its earliest signs is crucial to preventing its progression to more serious forms such as periodontitis. Gingivitis is generally reversible with good oral care and professional cleaning. If left untreated, it can lead to loss of gum tissue, the formation of deep pockets around the teeth, and eventually tooth loss. Early action can help maintain gum health and avoid more complex and costly treatments.
