The gums are one of the most important parts of the mouth. Their function is to support and form a tight seal around the teeth, so gingival care in oral health is a very significant point to take into account on a daily basis.
Poor oral hygiene and inadequate attention to your gums can lead to infections, inflammation, and/or bleeding.
In severe cases, it can lead to tooth mobility and very negative consequences, such as tooth loss.
Do you know how to properly care for your gums for excellent oral health? Find out why it is so important to pay attention to the soft tissues in your mouth, as much as or more than the teeth themselves.
Importance of gingival care to prevent periodontal problems
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is caused by the action of microorganisms responsible for the formation of dental biofilm, which if left to accumulate can cause infection.
In response to this infection, the body’s immune system is activated, leading to inflammation and other manifestations associated with severe discomfort and pain in the mouth.
Not taking care of your gums can lead to serious periodontal problems. These include the following:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often accompanied by bleeding during brushing and bad breath.
This occurs when dental biofilm is not properly removed by brushing. Bacteria accumulate between the tooth and the gum, penetrating the inside of the tooth and causing an infection.
Periodontitis
As gingivitis progresses, inflammation of the periodontal tissues occurs. That is, the infection spreads to the ligaments and bone where the teeth are lodged, gradually loosening and even falling out completely.
Although the signs and symptoms of periodontitis are similar to those of gingivitis, other signs and symptoms include receding gums, severe pain when the gums are touched, and teeth that are highly mobile.
When you get to this point it is very difficult to restore the health of the gums.. For this reason, dental experts insist on the importance of gingival care in oral health, to prevent any type of infection.
How to detect gum disease?
Good oral health can lead to a beautiful smile and white teeth. However, it is just as important to take into account the appearance of the gums to ensure that the teeth are properly attached to the jawbone.
Healthy gums are light pink in colour and are tightly attached to the surface of the teeth. If, on the other hand, are swollen, bleed when brushing, eating, or touching, and are usually reddish in colour, this is a sign of infection.
We often don’t realise that our gums are not completely healthy because we don’t pay enough attention to them. In order to maintain adequate gum health, it is imperative to have dental check-ups once or twice a year to detect periodontal disease in its early stages.
Dental professionals can assess when gums are not 100% healthy. The sooner the problem is discovered and the causes of gum damage are determined, the better the prognosis for the patient.
Tips for healthy gums
The best way to maintain healthy gums is to have an adequate oral hygiene regime at home, combined with regular check ups with your dentist or hygienist Oral hygiene helps to prevent any disease related to teeth and gums.
Gingival care begins with brushing. Choose a soft bristle toothbrush and avoid sudden movements that can damage the gums.
As part of the KIN product line, KIN B5 toothpaste is a complete line for the daily care of the gums and KIN Gingival Complex for those cases in which the dentist/hygienist/therapist recommends the use of Chlorhexidine.
Complement your oral hygiene with the use of mouthwash. These not only help maintain fresh breath but also eliminate microorganisms where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Choose from the KIN B5 or the KIN Gingival Complex range for perfect gingival care.
Don’t forget to eat a healthy, balanced diet and have regular check-ups with your dental professional to detect gum problems early. If you also have dentures, your gums should be monitored even more closely by a professional.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
The importance of oral care – Colegio Oficial de Dentistas de Bizkaia. The state of the gums has a direct impact on general health – Consejo General de Colegios de Odontólogos y Estomatólogos de España. COEM Oral Hygiene Week. Healthy gums DO NOT bleed – Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Odontólogos y Estomatólogos de la I Región. Get fit, take care of your gums – Sociedad Española de Periodoncia y Osteointegración.
