Do you take good care of your gums? It’s the latest health topic making waves on social media – and for good reason. “We are seeing a sea change in the field of dentistry,” says Dr. Reena Wadia, founder and principal gum specialist at RW Perio, “with our patients adopting a lifestyle approach with a health-first mindset.” The idea that “a healthy body starts with a healthy mouth” is more relevant than ever, she believes – and it seems many agree: Videos tagged “gum health” on TikTok have racked up over 87 million views and counting.
“People are often surprised to learn that gum disease is the most common disease in humans,” she says. According to NHS, gum disease is classified as a condition in which the gums become red, swollen, painful and bleed – a phenomenon that a dentist can easily diagnose and treat. Simply put, this is due to a buildup of plaque on the teeth, but Dr. Wadia adds that there are often many factors that contribute to the diagnosis of gum disease, with genetics playing a role.
The link between gum disease and other health problems – from pregnancy-related illnesses to Alzheimer’s disease
“There is a clear link between oral health and general health,” says Dr. Wadia. Bazaar“with evidence suggesting links between gum disease and many other inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and Alzheimer’s disease.”
Pregnant women are vulnerable to poor gum health, she explains. “Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation, bleeding and essentially gum disease. So it’s more crucial than ever to see a dentist regularly.” At that time, your body produces more progesterone, a hormone that boosts blood flow to the mouth and makes gums more susceptible to bacteria, says Dr. Wadia.
And another precaution for those who are waiting: “If you have morning sickness, do not brush your teeth right away because they will be softened by the acid in your stomach,” she advises. “Wait about an hour before brushing your teeth, and simply rinse your mouth with plain water afterward every time you’re sick. This will help prevent the acid in your vomit from damaging your teeth.”
She believes it is vital to highlight gum disease, especially as it applies to all age groups, with “too many people ignoring symptoms such as bleeding gums”.
Why gum health is the starting point for cosmetic dentistry and the rise of cosmetic gum treatments
Gum health is the starting point for cosmetic dentistry, Also. “Without healthy gums, you cannot create your perfect smile with products like orthodontics (like Invisalign programs), whitening, faceting and bonding etc – because without a solid foundation, there is no point in investing in anything else. » For this reason, she recommends consulting a gum specialist before any cosmetic treatment in order to get your smile in the healthiest condition and to ensure the longevity of any subsequent treatment. work on your teeth.
But the demand for cosmetic gum treatments alone has a growing waiting list, she reveals, which can look like anything “from gum lifting and gum contouring to correcting receding gums.” gums.” These are dental adjustments that many don’t know exist, notes Dr. Wadia, but whose results can be game-changing. “They cause minimal lifestyle disruption during the procedure, with rapid recovery and little downtime afterwards,” she reveals.
Expert Tips for Maintaining Good Gum Health at Home
Don’t just clean your teeth: “It’s essential to include the gum, because that’s where bacteria gets trapped,” says Dr. Wadia. “So remember your teeth, tongue and gums, and think about the mouth as a whole.” You should place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to where the gums and teeth meet, she adds, “tilting it up for the upper teeth and down for the lower teeth. Spend a few seconds per tooth.
Don’t rush the basics: “Brush your teeth twice a day for two full minutes at a time (30 seconds per quadrant is recommended) and use interdental brushes to clean between teeth.”
Use an electric toothbrush (rechargeable): “There are two types of electric toothbrushes to choose from: oscillating-rotating and sonic. Oscillating toothbrushes (as the name suggests) oscillate back and forth to help remove plaque, while electric toothbrushes Rotating toothbrushes spin in a circular motion.They both do a great job at removing plaque compared to a manual toothbrush.
Pay attention to pressure sensors: “Pressure sensors on electric toothbrushes can ensure that you don’t brush too much, as excessive pressure can damage your teeth and gums.”
Choose your toothpaste wisely: “Use a toothpaste with 1,000 to 1,500 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride. Always spit out the toothpaste when you’re finished, but don’t rinse, or it will wash out all the good ingredients (such as fluoride).”
