According to theNational Library of Medicine, nearly half of the adults in the US have some form of periodontal disease, and almost 8% of adults older than 30 have severe gum disease. If you have unhealthy gums, you should visit a dentist before there are complications.

As the disease progresses, your gums may pull away from your teeth. Which means you could start losing teeth if you don't seek professional treatment. 

Not sure how to spot signs of a gum infection, or how to prevent gum disease? Read on for our dentist tips for gum care! 

What is Gum Disease?

Under our visible gum line is a small space called a sulcus. Plaque and food can get trapped in this place, leading to an infection. 

Gum disease usually develops due to plaque overgrowth. Plaque is the sticky substance that clings onto and between our teeth. This film of bacteria can harden and become tartar before extending below the gum line.

When left unchecked, plaque causes an inflammation of the gums, gingivitis.This could cause your gums to separate from your teeth, which can lead to:

• Injury to the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth
• Teeth becoming unstable and loose
• Tooth loss

According to the American Dental Association, gingivitis and periodontitis are the top causes of adult tooth loss. Prioritizing your gums and oral hygiene can help reduce your risk of infection and tooth loss. 

Signs of a Gum Infection

Your gum disease could progress before you recognize you have symptoms. Schedule an appointment at your dentist's office every six months. Regular checkups will ensure early detection andgum disease prevention.

During a checkup, your dentist will probe your gums using a small ruler. Probing allows them to check for inflammation and measure pockets around your teeth. Your dentist may order X-rays to check for bone loss. 

Common signs of gum disease include:

• Red, tender, or swollen gums
• Changes in how your teeth fit together
• Changes in how well partial dentures fit
• Bleeding gums
• Sensitive or loose teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Gums that have moved away from your teeth

If you experience these signs of gum disease, let your dentist know. Gum disease can be reversed early.

When left untreated, complications can develop. These may include tooth loss or changes to your overall health. Gum disease may increase your risk of serious health conditions, including:

• Lung disease
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke

Gum Disease Prevention

You can prevent and treat gum disease with a combination of home remedies for gums and professional cleanings. However, the more severe form of gum disease must be treated by a professional. Don't wait to visit your dentist if you develop signs of a gum infection.

Apply these tips for at-home gum disease prevention between your regular dentist appointments. 

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Some home remedies for gums can reduce plaque, which may help reduce your likelihood of developing dental diseases like gingivitis. Protect your gums and oral hygiene by:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing daily
• Using mouthwash
• Using a toothbrush with soft bristles (or an electric brush)
• Replacing your toothbrush every three months
• Limiting your intake of sugary foods
• Not smoking or chewing tobacco
• Seeing your dentist every six months

Once you develop gum disease, these home remedies may not clear up the infection. Remember, you can only resolve periodontitis with a professional cleaning. 

Follow Dentist Tips for Gum Care

Schedule dental checkups every six months to maintainhealthy teeth and gums.Your dentist can spot signs of an infection before it progresses. They can provide customized dental tips for gum care based on your distinct needs.

During your next appointment, ask your dentist if you're using the proper brushing technique and flossing enough. If you're struggling to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas, they can recommend a better toothbrush .

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eat a balanced diet full of whole foods. Fruits and vegetables feature a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and calcium. Choose foods that can help reduce inflammation and boost your body's natural defense against gingivitis, and your immune system.

These nutritious foods include:

• Fatty fish (like salmon)
• Milk and cheese (which contain anti-bacterial enzymes)
• Nuts and seeds (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
• Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt and kimchi)
• Green tea (which contains anti-inflammatories)
• Fruits and vegetables

Drink plenty of water, which can wash away bacteria after meals. 

Treating Unhealthy Gums

Your dentist may determine that you require professional gum disease treatment during your next checkup. According to Boston University and 25 years of data, gum disease is linked to earlier mortality rates. Seeking immediate treatment can benefit your oral and overall health.

Here are a few gum disease treatment options to consider.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning, which involves scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing tartar from above and below the gum line. During a root planing treatment, they'll smooth rough spots and remove plaque from the root surface.

If the gingivitis doesn't respond to deep cleanings, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics. Treatment is sometimes in the form of a gel, mouthwash, or oral capsule.

Other medications include:

• Antiseptic mouthwash
• Time-release antiseptic chips
• Antibiotic microspheres
• Oral antibiotics
• Doxycycline

If your gingivitis is severe, however, you may require surgery. 

Surgical Treatments

A periodontist will perform your gum surgery. Different treatment options include:

• Flap surgery
• Bone and tissue grafts
• Dental crown lengthening

During flap surgery, your dentist will lift your gums to remove plaque and tartar from deeper pockets. Gum grafts are used to cover exposed tooth roots using tissue from the roof of your mouth. This can help prevent additional bone or gum loss. 

Dental crown lengthening is ideal if you have excess gum disease. Your periodontist can reshape your bone and gum tissue to expose more of your teeth. 

Improve Your Gums and Oral Hygiene Today

Do these signs of unhealthy gums sound familiar? If so, don't hesitate to seek professional treatment before you experience complications. 

Our team at Q & A Dental Care provides exceptional dental care with a focus on patient comfort and convenience. We offer a wide range of services meant to protect your smile for years to come. 

Trust our knowledgeable team, state-of-the-art facility, and superior quality of care. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.