Healthy Teeth Rely On Healthy Gums

Gums protect the base of our teeth and healthy teeth depend on the state of our gums. Gum problems can be the cause of teeth loss if they are not treated. Gum diseases can be either gingivitis or periodontitits.

Gingivitis is inflammation of gums with symptoms such as bleeding occurring while you brush your teeth. The inflammation can expand to the bone if it is left untreated. And when this happens, the condition is called periodontitits.

Periodontitis manifests as receding gums, pockets of inflammation along the gum line, pain and unusual sensitivity to changes in temperature. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can affect the whole body. Bacteria in the mouth travel to the bloodstream and can set off an inflammatory reaction in another part of the body. Proper hygiene can prevent gum disease. A healthy diet can maintain healthy gums. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids also helps in reducing the inflammation.

Healthy gums are pink and firm. Red and swollen gums point to a disease. There is a link between the bacteria associated with gum disease and serious health conditions. A recent report showed that 35% of U.S. adults have gum disease.

A combination between poor hygiene and deficiencies in nutrition, diseases and exposure to toxic substances contribute to gum disease. There are also prescription medications that have damaging effects on gums and teeth.

Poor hygiene allows plaque to build up along the gum line. Plaque is a build up of bacteria and their toxic products. Plaque sticking to the tooth surface at the gumline can inflame the gums, causing gingivitis. The gums become reddish or purple, feel sore, bleed easily and appear puffy and swollen.

Vitamin C plays a major role in prevention of gum disease. Classical signs of vitamin C deficiency include gingivitis, bleeding gums and loosening of teeth that is caused by the loss of supporting connective tissue. Vitamin B is also important for gum health. The gums and surface tissues in the mouth use large amounts of Vitamin B, folic acid to stay in shape. Vitamin B is found in abundance in green leafy vegetables and yeast.