Healthy gums
Healthy gums are pink and don’t bleed. They fit tightly around the teeth. They have a firm texture and the surface texture often has a surface stippling aspect. It is important to keep your gums in good shape in order to keep your teeth and mouth in a good condition.
Gingivitis
This is an inflammation of the gums . Classic symptoms of gingivitis include swollen, red gums, that bleed when you brush. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque, a sticky, soft film of food and bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. When gingivitis is not treated, it can become periodontitis and cause permanent damage to your teeth and alveolar bone.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease, affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth. It involves a progressive loss of the alveolar bone around the tooth. When periodontitis is not treated, it can lead to the loosening and loss of teeth.
Dental hygiene
Clean your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft or medium toothbrush with a head that is not to large, for hard to reach areas in the mouth. A good toothpaste contains fluoride and is not abrasive. Dental floss and interdental brushes can be used daily to remove interproximal plaque. A therapeutic mouthwash can help to control plaque and tooth decay and can reduce gingivitis.
It is recommended to visit your dentist once or twice a year for your dental check-up.