Gums are the soft tissues surrounding the base of your teeth, forming a protective seal that secures them in the jawbone and safeguards roots from bacteria and damage. Maintaining gum health is integral to preserving your overall oral well-being.
Characteristics of Healthy Bottom Gums
Healthy bottom gums typically present a uniform coral pink or pale pink hue. This coloration can naturally vary, with individuals possessing darker skin tones sometimes exhibiting benign darker spots or patches due to melanin pigmentation. The tissue should feel firm and resilient to the touch, not soft or spongy.
Healthy gums often display a “stippled” or “orange peel” appearance, which indicates a healthy attachment to the underlying bone. However, the absence of this stippling does not necessarily indicate disease. Healthy gums fit snugly around the teeth, with a scalloped appearance between each tooth.
The gum tissue should form pointed papillae, which are small triangular sections of gum that fill the spaces between each tooth. Healthy gums do not bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating, indicating an absence of inflammation.
Indicators of Unhealthy Gums
One of the earliest indicators of unhealthy gums is a noticeable change in color. Instead of a healthy pink, gums may appear inflamed with shades ranging from bright red to a deep purplish hue. This discoloration often accompanies swelling, causing the gum tissue to look puffy or enlarged around the teeth.
Bleeding is a significant sign of gum inflammation, occurring during brushing, flossing, or even spontaneously. Unhealthy gums may also cause discomfort, tenderness, or pain when touched or during chewing.
Another common sign of unhealthy gums is recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer. The presence of pus between the gums and teeth can also indicate an infection. Additionally, persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, can be a symptom associated with gum issues.
Maintaining Gum Health
Maintaining healthy gums begins with a consistent daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush helps remove plaque and food particles from tooth surfaces and along the gumline. Daily flossing is equally important, as it cleans between teeth and beneath the gumline where toothbrushes cannot reach.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for detecting and removing hardened plaque (tartar) that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. A balanced diet also supports overall oral health. Avoiding tobacco products reduces the risk of gum disease and helps maintain gum integrity. If any indicators of unhealthy gums are noticed, consulting a dentist is advisable for proper diagnosis and treatment.