Thursday, March 28, 2019

Importance of Healthy Gums

We understand that our patients want to do all that is necessary to have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Our staff does everything possible to help you achieve those goals. However, many of our patients overlook the significance of healthy gums.

Our dentist in Huntington Beach wants to make sure all of our patients have the best total dental health possible. Keeping your gums healthy is essential in order to have optimal dental health.

Your gums have the essential task of holding your teeth in place. There are other reasons your gums matter, including:

• Giving support to the teeth by stabilizing them when you use your mouth
• Absorbing pressure for the teeth
• Supporting your teeth when you chew food
• Protecting your jaws
• Containing your teeth


It is important to remember gum disease begins subtly and painlessly, so being proactive with the health of your gums is vital. Since your gums are as important to your overall oral health as your teeth, there are steps you should take to ensure that your gums are healthy. These include:

• BRUSH YOUR TEETH AT LEAST TWO TIMES A DAY- This may be a tip you first heard as a child, but its importance to your oral health has not diminished over time.

• FLOSS DAILY- While brushing your teeth is important, there is no substitute for thorough flossing. The areas where plaque collects are tough to reach with a toothbrush, so flossing is essential for healthy gums.

• GARGLE WITH MOUTHWASH EACH DAY- Just as flossing supports your brushing efforts, gargling helps to eliminate bacteria dental floss missed.

• USE A TOOTHPASTE THAT CONTAINS FLOURIDE- There are many choices in the toothpaste aisle of your local store. While each variety boasts miraculous abilities, focus on purchasing a tube containing fluoride.

• SEE YOUR DENTIST OR PERIODONTIST AT THE FIRST SIGN OF A PROBLEM- When detected in the early stages, gum disease is highly treatable through non-invasive methods. However, the signs of problems with your gums are hard to notice in the early stages. Our periodontist in Huntington Beach suggests patients make appointments for care if they notice gums that bleed are red and puffy or receding.

If you would like more information regarding how to make sure your gums are healthy, please contact our office.