Healthy Gums Guide

It may surprise you to learn that research shows around one in two adults over the age of 30 in the US has some form of gum disease.ⁱ While the condition is extremely common, failing to spot and treat the causes of gum disease early can put you at risk of developing severe gum disease, known as periodontitis – the leading cause of tooth loss for adults.^{ii, iv} It could also jeopardize your health in general, as severe gum disease has been associated with other diseases, such as heart disease and stroke.ⁱⁱⁱ

 

Are Your Gums Healthy?

Knowing what healthy gums look and feel like will help you keep your gums in good shape, and stay on the lookout for any early signs of gum disease.

What Healthy Gums Look Like

Healthy gums are pink, firm to the touch and don’t bleed.v Unhealthy gums are typically red, swollen, bleed easily during brushing and flossing, and may start pulling away from your teeth.iv It may be helpful to compare your gums with pictures of healthy gums and unhealthy gums to get an idea of what sort of condition yours may be in – but your dentist is the best person to speak to for an official gum disease diagnosis.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

When your gums bleed this is a warning sign that you may have gum disease. Plaque build-up on your teeth can causes your gums to become red, swollen and prone to bleeding. If caught in its early stages – known as gingivitis – gum disease can be prevented by twice daily brushing and flossing.^iv You should also see your dentist to check the problem hasn’t created further complications. Bad breath can also be symptomatic of unhealthy gums.^iv

What Causes Unhealthy Gums?

In most cases, ineffective dental hygiene is at the root of gum problems. If plaque – a sticky, transparent film of bacteria that coats the teeth – is not effectively brushed, flossed and rinsed away it can lead to irritation, inflammation and bleeding gums.^iv

 

Smoking increases your risk of gum disease twofold, while poor nutrition, some medical conditions (including diabetes or cardiovascular disease), a family history of periodontitis, obesity and stress can all be risk factors for developing gum disease.^{vi, vii} Certain medications can also affect your oral health and may contribute to your risk of gum disease.^vii 

How to Get Healthy Gums

Brushing, flossing and seeing the dentist regularly is the care package you need to help prevent and reverse early stage gum disease.^{iv, viii}

 

Brush twice daily with a gum-healthy fluoride toothpaste such as parodontax Complete Protection that kills and removes plaque with brushing. Floss every day to remove any plaque and food that is beyond the reach of your toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as it can also harbor odor-causing bacteria.^viii