Understanding Gum Health: Signs, Prevention & Treatment
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Learn how to spot early issues, prevent gum disease, and keep your mouth in top shape—with help from Blacklick Creek Dental in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
Periodontal health • Preventive dentistry • Patient education
Why Gum Health Matters
Your gums (gingiva) support and protect the teeth. When gums are inflamed or infected, bone that anchors teeth can be lost—leading to looseness and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Healthy gums are typically firm, pale pink, and don’t bleed when you brush or floss.
Early Signs of Gum Problems
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding with brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Gum recession (teeth look longer)
- Tooth sensitivity or mobility
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
Gingivitis is early gum inflammation caused by plaque. It’s usually reversible with improved brushing, flossing, and a professional cleaning.
Periodontitis occurs when inflammation reaches the bone. Pockets deepen around teeth and bone can be lost. Treatment may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), localized antibiotics, and a 3–4 month maintenance schedule.
Daily Habits for Healthy Gums
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush; consider an electric brush with a pressure sensor.
- Clean between teeth daily (floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser for bridges/implants).
- Rinse wisely with an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash if recommended.
- Nourish your gums with a balanced diet and plenty of water; limit frequent sugary snacks.
- Mind grind & clench: ask about night guards if you clench or grind (bruxism can stress gums and bone).
Professional Care & Periodontal Maintenance
We tailor care to your gum health. For early issues, a standard cleaning plus home-care coaching may be enough. For periodontitis, we’ll typically recommend scaling and root planing, then periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months to keep bacteria in check.
Common Risk Factors
- Tobacco use (any form)
- Diabetes or immune conditions
- Dry mouth (medications, mouth breathing)
- Plaque buildup from inconsistent home care
- Ill-fitting restorations or crowded teeth that trap plaque
Kids, Teens & Pregnancy
Kids/Teens: Orthodontic appliances make plaque control tricky—interdental brushes and water flossers help. Sealants and fluoride reduce risk.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can increase gum sensitivity (“pregnancy gingivitis”). Gentle but thorough daily care and a professional cleaning are especially important.
When to Call a Dentist
Schedule a visit if you notice ongoing bleeding, gum tenderness, recession, bad breath, loose teeth, or sores that don’t heal within two weeks. The earlier we intervene, the simpler your treatment.
Related Services at Blacklick Creek Dental
Gum Health FAQs
How can I stop my gums from bleeding?
Improve daily plaque removal (brushing + between-teeth cleaning) and schedule a professional cleaning. If bleeding persists, we’ll evaluate for gingivitis or periodontitis.
Can receded gums grow back?
Lost gum tissue doesn’t regrow on its own, but inflammation can be controlled. In some cases, a grafting procedure may restore coverage and protect roots.
Do mouthwashes cure gum disease?
They help reduce bacteria, but they don’t replace mechanical plaque removal or professional treatment when disease is present.