September marks National Gum Care Month, making it the perfect time to focus on one of the most important aspects of your oral health.
At Northpointe Dental Care, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve healthier gums in Blaine through education, prevention, and advanced treatment options. Your gums are the foundation of your smile, and taking care of them now can prevent serious problems down the road while keeping your teeth strong for life.
Call us today at 763-200-5807 to schedule a gum exam.
Gum disease affects nearly half of all adults over 30, yet many people don’t realize they have it until it’s already advanced. This silent condition starts with gingivitis, the earliest stage where gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form that can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth.
The bacteria that cause gum disease don’t just stay in your mouth. Research has shown strong links between gum disease and serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s disease. When bacteria from infected gums enter your bloodstream, they can trigger inflammation throughout your body, affecting your overall health and well-being.
The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with proper care and regular professional treatment. Early detection and intervention can stop the progression and even reverse some of the damage caused by gingivitis.
Prevention starts at home with consistent daily hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential, but technique matters just as much as frequency. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and angle it at 45 degrees toward your gumline. Make gentle circular motions rather than aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing, which can irritate your gums and wear away enamel.
Flossing daily is non-negotiable for gum health. Many people skip this step, but flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. If traditional floss is difficult to use, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser. The key is finding a method you’ll use consistently.
Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your routine can provide extra protection against harmful bacteria. Look for products that specifically target gingivitis and follow the directions for best results. Remember that mouthwash supplements but doesn’t replace brushing and flossing.
While home care is crucial, professional cleanings and exams are equally important for maintaining healthy gums. During your regular visits to Northpointe Dental Care, our skilled hygienist removes tartar buildup that can’t be eliminated with home care alone. This professional cleaning reaches below the gumline where bacteria often hide.
We also perform thorough gum assessments during each visit, measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth and checking for signs of inflammation or infection. Early detection allows us to intervene before minor problems become major issues requiring extensive treatment.
For patients showing early signs of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent cleanings or additional preventive treatments. This proactive approach can often reverse gingivitis and prevent progression to more serious stages.
When gum disease has progressed beyond the early stages, specialized periodontal treatment becomes necessary. We offer comprehensive treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific needs and condition severity.
Scaling and root planing, often called deep cleaning, is typically the first line of treatment for periodontitis. This procedure involves carefully removing bacteria and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces to help the gums reattach to teeth. Many patients see significant improvement with this treatment alone.
Certain lifestyle choices can significantly impact your gum health. Smoking and tobacco use are among the biggest risk factors for gum disease, as they reduce blood flow to the gums and impair healing. If you use tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health.
Stress, poor nutrition, and certain medications can also affect gum health. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D supports healthy gums, while managing stress helps your body fight off infection more effectively.
This National Gum Care Month, commit to taking better care of your gums. Start by evaluating your current hygiene routine and making improvements where needed. Schedule regular dental visits and don’t ignore warning signs like bleeding, swelling, or persistent bad breath.
Take the next step toward healthier gums in Blaine. Call Northpointe Dental Care today at 763-200-5807 to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation. You can also make an appointment online if it’s more convenient.
