National Gum Care Month: Your Complete Guide to Periodontal Health in September
September officially marks National Gum Care Month, an important time to spotlight the foundation of a healthy smile—your gums! At North Carolina Implants & Periodontics, we’re dedicated to helping our patients maintain optimal periodontal health all year round. This comprehensive guide expands on some essential habits to make your gums perio-approved!
Understanding the Importance of Gum Health
Your gums play a crucial role in your overall health, not just your oral health. Healthy gums anchor your teeth securely and form a tight seal that prevents bacteria from penetrating deeper tissues. New research continues to strengthen the connection between periodontal disease and systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and lately Alzheimer disease.
Essential Practices for Optimal Gum Health
Master Your Brushing Technique
While most people understand the importance of brushing twice daily, technique matters significantly. Position your soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and use gentle circular motions. This approach effectively removes plaque without causing gum irritation or recession.
Many patients brush too aggressively, which can actually damage gum tissue over time. Remember that effective plaque removal doesn’t require harsh scrubbing—consistency and proper technique are far more important.
Make Flossing Non-Negotiable
Approximately 35% of your tooth surfaces can’t be reached by brushing alone. Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles from these spaces between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach, preventing gum inflammation and disease.
If traditional floss is difficult to manage, consider alternatives like floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes. Ultimately, the best flossing tool is the one you’ll use consistently.
Incorporate Antimicrobial Rinses
An ADA-approved antimicrobial mouthwash can significantly reduce bacteria that cause gum disease. For maximum effectiveness, use your rinse at a different time than brushing, ideally waiting around 30 minutes after. This prevents washing away beneficial fluoride from your toothpaste while ensuring protection throughout the day.
Look specifically for rinses containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) or essential oils designed for gum protection.
Optimize Your Diet for Gum Health
Your diet significantly impacts your periodontal health. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery stimulate saliva production and naturally clean teeth. Additionally, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds) offer anti-inflammatory benefits that can help reduce gum inflammation.
Green tea contains catechins that may help fight bacteria associated with gum disease, while vitamin C-rich foods strengthen gum tissue. Simultaneously, limiting sugary and acidic foods helps prevent gum inflammation.
Maintain Regular Periodontal Checkups
Even with excellent home care, professional cleanings and examinations every six months can be essential for early detection of gum disease. As periodontal specialists, we can identify subtle changes in your gum health that might go unnoticed but require intervention.
For patients with a history of periodontal disease, more frequent maintenance visits may be recommended to maintain optimal gum health.
Know the Warning Signs
Early intervention is critical for preventing and treating gum disease. Never ignore warning signs like bleeding, swollen, or tender gums, as these early indicators of gum disease require prompt professional attention.
Other signs to watch for include persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
The Best Periodontal Care in Raleigh
Remember, healthy gums are the foundation of not just a beautiful smile, but also contribute significantly to your overall health and wellbeing. For patients experiencing gum disease or recession, our practice offers specialized treatments using the latest techniques and technology. From scaling and root planing to regenerative procedures and minimally invasive surgical options, we provide comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your specific needs.
Take Action This September
National Gum Care Month is the perfect time to recommit to your periodontal health. Schedule your comprehensive evaluation with our team at North Carolina Implants & Periodontics to ensure your gums are in optimal condition!
If you have questions about your periodontal health or would like to schedule an appointment, click here or call our front desk at (919) 510-8888.