Preserve your gums, protect your smile
Often neglected in favor of teeth, gums nevertheless play a fundamental role in oral health. They protect the roots, hold teeth in place, and form a barrier against infections. Weakened gums can lead to pain, bleeding, or even tooth loosening.
Dr Laurent SERS, dental surgeon in Cannes, gives you his advice for daily gum care.
Why is gum health so important?
Healthy gums are:
Pink, firm, and painless
Well attached to the teeth, without recession
Free from bleeding when brushing or flossing
Conversely, chronic inflammation can indicate gingivitis or periodontitis, silent but progressive diseases that can lead to tooth loss.
Good practices for healthy gums
1. Adopt rigorous oral hygiene
Brushing should be daily, gentle but effective, at least twice a day. Use:
A soft toothbrush or electric
A fluoride toothpaste suitable for sensitive gums
Dental floss or interdental brushes, to remove plaque between teeth
An antiseptic mouthwash, only upon dentist’s recommendation
⚠️ Tartar is the main cause of gum inflammation. It can only be removed by a professional scaling.
2. Proper nutrition to nourish your gums
Certain foods promote gum health:
Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C (kiwi, citrus fruits, bell pepper)
Calcium-rich foods (cheeses, yogurts, almonds)
Hard-to-chew foods (apples, raw carrots) which stimulate blood circulation in the gums
Limit sugary, acidic, and ultra-processed products which promote dental plaque.
3. Avoid risk factors
Certain behaviors directly harm gum health:
Tobacco, which reduces vascularization and masks signs of inflammation
Chronic stress, which weakens the immune system
Malocclusion or misaligned teeth, which promote bacterial retention areas
Bruxism (teeth grinding), a source of gingival microtrauma
4. Consult your dental surgeon regularly
Professional monitoring is essential for:
Detect early signs of periodontal disease
Perform a complete scaling
Adapt your hygiene techniques to your situation
Evaluate the quality of your gums, especially if you wear a prosthesis or have implants
What to do in case of sensitive or bleeding gums?
Gum bleeding is never normal. It is a warning sign, often due to bacterial plaque accumulation.
Act quickly:
Reinforce hygiene with gentle but thorough brushing
Avoid tobacco
Consult a dentist for a complete periodontal diagnosis
Do not let inflammation set in. Untreated periodontitis can damage the supporting tissues of the tooth.
Key Takeaways
Healthy gums are essential for a lasting and stable smile
Adapted daily hygiene, a balanced diet and regular consultations are the pillars of their protection
In case of bleeding, pain, or recession, do not wait to consult
