If your gums are healthy and strong they will appear pink and firm. Healthy gums Sutton do not bleed when you brush or floss, and they will not feel sensitive or swollen. By maintaining a good dental hygiene routine and making sure that you visit us at Benhill Dental Practice on a regular basis you can ensure that you have healthy gums Sutton.

Looking after your gums

Unhealthy gums may appear red and swollen. They can feel sensitive or tender to touch and they bleed each time you brush or floss your teeth. Another key symptom of unhealthy gums is bad breath that does not go away with brushing. These symptoms are warning signs of gum disease or a gum infection and should not be ignored. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it is important that you visit our dentist at Benhill Dental Practice as soon as possible. Our dentist will carry out a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and put together a treatment plan for you. This may consist of simply maintaining better dental hygiene at home. Very often you will be referred to our hygienist. The hygienist will professionally clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar and restore healthy gums Sutton. Plaque and tartar consist of millions of bacteria which release acids and toxins that are harmful for your teeth and gums. By removing plaque and tartar from your teeth at the dentist and maintaining good dental hygiene at home you can enjoy excellent oral health .

If your gums are severely infected, then you may need deep cleaning. Deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from underneath the gum line. This is a more invasive procedure but it will help restore the health of your gums. Visiting the dentist and hygienist in time helps prevent gum disease from advancing and causing tooth loss. Gums are the support structure that hold the teeth in place. Therefore, if your gums are infected then eventually this results in missing teeth. Missing teeth can have huge implications for not only your remaining teeth, but for your overall quality of life. If you have missing teeth, it is important that you speak to us at Benhill Dental Practice and find out about tooth replacement.

Dental implants for tooth loss

Missing teeth can be replaced using dental implants. They are small titanium screws that are inserted into the bone socket of your missing tooth and take 3 to 6 months to become fixed into your jaw. After this, you can replace the missing visible part of the tooth with a crown, restoring the appearance of your smile as well as the function of your mouth. Although this is an excellent piece of dental technology, even a dental implant is not as good as the real thing. This is why it is important that you look after your teeth and gums carefully. Healthy gums are vital for healthy teeth and healthy teeth are important for good health and wellbeing. Speak to us at Benhill Dental Practice today to find out more about looking after your teeth and gums.

If you were to ask a hundred people what the number one cause of tooth loss was in adult life, they would inevitably say tooth decay and extraction.

However, this is not the case. The number one culprit relating to tooth loss in adults is gum disease.

Also known as gingivitis and periodontal disease, gum disease can be insidious, especially if you are someone who avoids dental check-ups. It can appear as swollen gums, minor bleeding when brushing and even a bruised sensation on the teeth when chewing food.

So, how do you keep your gums and gum pockets healthy?

At Benhill Dental Practice, our team of hygienists and dentists will help you to get and maintain healthy gums Sutton, to ensure that your teeth stay where they are needed for as long as possible. It is not as complicated as many dental patients think to keep your gums healthy, so call us if you need any guidance.

And without further ado, our team has written a brief guide into the methods you can use to get healthy gums Sutton.

Water flossers

Water flossers are relatively new on the scene of oral health and are a great way to get and maintain healthy gums Sutton.

As the name suggests, these devices remove plaque with jets of water, which can be easier on sensitive gums as it reduces bleeding. Water flossers do take some getting used to, though, so you may end up drenched the first few times you use one but don’t worry; your gums will thank you!

Floss and tape

Dental floss and/or dental tape are steadfast options you can use to remove plaque from your teeth and from under your gums.

Of course, if you are new to flossing or find that you bleed every time you do it, this can mean that your technique is not correct. So, our team at Benhill Dental can help you to get your technique right and remove all of that nasty plaque!

Electric toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are a fantastic way to keep gum disease away.

As they oscillate and have round heads, they can get closer and even underneath the gum line. Here, they remove plaque and debris that can lead to periodontal disease.

And, as they are so widely available, they are likely going to be cheaper than you think, so invest in one!

Lifestyle

Your oral health can be drastically impacted by your lifestyle, which can negatively influence your gums if there are areas that are not maintained.

For instance, if you smoke or drink alcohol excessively, this can cause your gums to recede, potentially causing your teeth to look longer, as well as exposing your tooth roots.

Our team can offer you advice on your lifestyle choices if we feel that they are negatively impacting your oral health, as well as providing smoking cessation help.

Check-ups!

Last but certainly not least, in order to keep your teeth in top-notch condition, we always advise our patients to attend check-ups with our team twice a year, so we can track any gum disease that you may have. This will also allow us to prescribe toothpaste and mouthwashes that can help manage and reverse earlier instances of gum disease. It will also allow us to refer you to our hygienist if needed, for a scale and polish, which can minimise and help with more severe presentations of periodontal disease.

As a dental practice with a commitment to providing the best care for our patients, at Benhill Dental Practice we understand that athletes and sports lovers have unique dental care needs. Physical activity is an important element in acquiring bodily health, so we don’t want anything to distract from this. In the article, we will share our top dental care tips for athletes to help you maintain healthy gums Sutton and protect your smile.

1. Choose the right mouthguard for your sport

One of the most important aspects of protecting your smile while engaging in sports is using the right mouthguard. A mouthguard can protect your teeth and gums from injury and reduce the risk of dental emergencies. At our practice, we offer custom-made mouthguards designed to fit your teeth perfectly. These provide the best protection and are far more comfortable than generic, over-the-counter options. By choosing the right mouthguard, you can focus on excelling in your sport while keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

2. Maintain proper oral hygiene habits

Even as an athlete, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits to support healthy gums Sutton and keep your teeth strong. We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily is essential to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach. In addition, make sure to visit our dental practice regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. Our team of experienced professionals will help ensure your teeth and gums stay in top shape.

3. Be mindful of your sports drink and snack choices

Many sports drinks and snacks contain high levels of sugar and acid, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. To protect your teeth and gums, try to choose healthier options when possible. Instead of sugary sports drinks, opt for water or electrolyte drinks with low or no sugar content. If you need a quick energy boost during a game or workout, choose snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein, like nuts or cheese. Our dental team can provide more personalised advice on the best food and drink choices for your specific needs.

4. Address dental injuries promptly

Despite our best efforts, accidents and injuries can happen during sports. If you experience a dental injury, it’s important to act quickly and seek professional care. Our dental practice is equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies, from chipped or cracked teeth to knocked-out teeth or damaged gums. By addressing dental injuries promptly, you can minimise the risk of long-term damage and ensure your smile stays healthy and strong.

At Benhill Dental Practice, our team is dedicated to helping athletes like you maintain healthy gums Sutton and protect your smile. By following these tips and seeking regular dental care, you can enjoy your favourite sports while ensuring your oral health remains a top priority. Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your unique dental needs and learn more about how we can support your athletic lifestyle.

Visiting your dentist on a regular basis

Clean teeth and healthy gums in Sutton are vital for good oral health and overall well-being. It is important to visit your dentist on a regular basis so that your teeth can be fully examined and the dentist can check to make sure that your mouth is clean, healthy and that there are no underlying issues present. Not all dental issues are symptomatic however toothache, bleeding gums, sensitivity and bad breath are symptoms that should not be ignored. If you are experiencing any of these issues it may be a sign of underlying dental problems and need to be attended to immediately to prevent further damage and complications. Visiting your hygienist alongside your dental appointments at Benhill Dental Practice is an extremely important form of preventive therapy in dental hygiene and is required to help maintain clean teeth and healthy gums in Sutton.

The role of the hygienist in maintaining healthy gums

Optimal gum health is vital for good dental health. Your hygienist will help educate you about good oral hygiene techniques, advise as to how to maintain good dental health and give nutritional advice and information about specific foods which may be beneficial or should be avoided to make sure that you have healthy gums in Sutton. The hygienist is concerned with identifying and preventing dental issues by examining your mouth thoroughly to check for any signs or symptoms and to identify them early on and therefore prevent further complications by treating them successfully before they can cause damage to the surrounding dentition. The Field of dentistry concerned with gum health and issues of the supporting structures of the teeth is known as periodontics. The periodontium consists of your gums, alveolar bone, the cementum which attaches the tooth to the alveolar bone and the ligament which holds the tooth in place. Periodontics is involved with the diagnosis and treatment of the diseases and conditions affecting these structures. These include gingivitis, which is commonly known as gum disease, which is an infection and inflammation of the gums and if left untreated can result in periodontitis, which is the infection of the other structures of the periodontium.

Gingivitis and periodontitis

Gingivitis can occur throughout all stages of life and is a key dental issue that may be experienced by most adults at least once in their lifetime. Gingivitis usually occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene and avoiding regular visits to the dentist. Other factors such as pregnancy, smoking, poor nutrition, specific medications and another underlying disease can also result in gingivitis. Bad breath and bleeding gums are the key symptoms of gingivitis and should never be ignored. The earlier that this can be detected the fewer complications there will be in the future, if left untreated gingivitis can spread and infect your remaining healthy gums and other structures of your mouth resulting in periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severely painful condition and can ultimately result in tooth loss. Book an appointment with your dentist here at Benhill dental practice and you can undergo a full examination to make sure that you have clean teeth, healthy gums in Sutton and start enjoying better oral health from today.

We often hear lately about the huge proportion of people who do not have healthy gums in Sutton and find that they spit blood after they have brushed their teeth or experience some degree of swelling or pain in their gums over time.

Many of us brush this issue aside, as it is common and a complication that does not directly impact your lifestyle or your health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, if you do not have healthy gums in Sutton, then you are likely to experience ongoing issues with your health as a result and we urge you to mention it to your dentist when you pop in for your routine biannual checkup, so that we can quickly and easily address the issue for you.

Even though this is one of many things in life that we tend to put aside for another time, it does play at the back of our minds and, like anything else, these small concerns can gradually build up and play a part in your emotional wellbeing, as well as your physical health. There comes a time when addressing these issues allows you to take that weight off your shoulders and knowing that you are caring for yourself properly can make you feel a whole lot better and allow you to spend more time doing the things you love.

Why is having good oral health so important?

Healthy gums in Sutton are very important because they are essentially supporting cushions for your teeth which need to be strong and healthy in order for your teeth to be healthy. Underlying gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis which affects the entire tooth and can eventually result in teeth loss, so you really need to address the concern quickly in order to ensure your smile is as healthy as it can be.

How can I care for my gums?

We often suggest that you see a professional who cleans your teeth with specialised tools as well as visiting a dentist for general maintenance and health checks. This hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar that may be present on your teeth and can damage your gums if cemented for too long.

They will also work on improving the quality of your gums so that they are able to be the supporting cushions to your teeth that they need to be and thus improve the overall health of your smile. A lot of the care can be done by you and we will provide you with specific information and instructions that you can follow that are designed to help your personal and unique situation. It could be that we recommend you use a softer toothbrush or clean your teeth in a certain way, using a preferable toothpaste.

We might also suggest that you come in to see us more frequently so we can better monitor any changes to your teeth and gums, we can then react quickly should they deteriorate too quickly for your overall health and wellbeing.

However we can and will work together with you to help you to achieve a healthier and happier smile.

It takes a committed and experienced professional to provide you with the right kind of service and advice to ensure that you can maintain your healthy gums in Sutton. Furthermore you do need to enlist the service of either a dentist or a specialised professional who uses specific tools to keep your teeth clean.

These professionals are charged with a duty of care to keep your teeth clean so that you can have healthy gums in Sutton because having healthy teeth enables your gums to be clean, strong and healthy as well.

Interestingly, healthy gums in Sutton have been linked with reducing the instances of other conditions in the body; a clear observation of how our bodies are holistic entities. Gum disease and heart disease do show signs of having a reputable link, although researchers and dentists cannot quite pinpoint the reason behind the occurrence.

So, if you are wondering why it is so important to keep your gums healthy and to have a bright, clean smile then consider looking beyond the aesthetic implications of an unhealthy smile and delving into understanding why your gums are so important.

Why are my gums so important?

Your gums act as cushions to your teeth. Their role is to surround the lower part of your teeth where they connect to your jaw and help to support them in many ways. This area is very sensitive and our gums are there to protect them. Where our teeth meet our jaw also needs to be stabilised and secured, a role that is supported by your gums as well.

When your gums become inflamed, red or they bleed when you brush them, it can be a sign of gingivitis, otherwise known as gum disease. If you leave gingivitis untreated, it can worsen into another kind of infection called periodontitis which affects your entire tooth. If nothing is done, you may find that you are susceptible to losing those teeth in the affected area which can be a major and detrimental change to your wellbeing.

It is only when we lose our teeth or begin to suffer with poor oral health do we truly recognise the importance of a healthy smile. Not only does an unhealthy smile take its toll on us physically, but a lot of our self esteem is hung on our appearance. We unconsciously judge one another on the appearance of our smile frequently as it is one of the biggest factors in a first impression.

How can I care for my gums?

It is important to brush your gums when you brush your teeth so that you can physically remove the debris that builds up in the small spaces between teeth and gum.

You should also ensure that you visit a professional who cleans your teeth as often as you see a dentist. By removing the buildup of plaque and tartar with specialised tools and providing actionable tips that can help you maintain or improve your oral health, you will be able to enjoy your smile for many years to come.

Healthy gums may be overlooked by many of our patients, however, they are critical when attempting to maintain a high standard of general oral health! If you are an individual who is searching for a happy (and therefore healthy!) smile, then healthy gums in Sutton could be a good place to start!

Taking care of your smile

At our dental clinic situated in Sutton, our experienced team of dental healthcare professionals take huge pride in the impeccable standard of dentistry they offer to our patients. In addition to the passion of dental care all of our dental specialists share, they also help our patients stay on top of their dental hygiene, therefore maintaining their healthy gums in Sutton.

Staying on top of your dental health

Many patients may believe that maintaining an adequate dental hygiene regime in the comfort of their own home could be enough to get rid of unwanted tartar on the surface of their teeth. Unfortunately, however, this may not necessarily be the case! In addition to brushing twice daily (for a minimum of two minutes) with a fluoride toothpaste, there are further measures that should be taken to ensure patients stay up to date with the health of their smile!

Taking the first step to a cleaner smile

Many patients may unfortunately overlook their bi-annual check-up at their local clinic (this may be due to several factors, such as a fear of the dentist, or the belief that they possess a healthy smile) but this can have a detrimental effect on their dental health. If you are a patient who is considering postponing (or even cancelling their dental appointment altogether) then you may wish to know what to expect during a dental hygiene appointment.

What to expect from a visit to our Benhill Dental Practice

Many of our patients may experience anxiety at the thought of a visit to their local clinic, which is why our team of dental specialists strive to make our patients feel as comfortable as possible within the walls of our dental practice. In addition to the standardised oral assessments many of our patients may expect (such as checking each individual tooth for cavities or signs of decay, to name just a few common examples) our team will also administer several procedures to ensure our patients’ mouths stay clean and healthy!

What is a scale and polish?

A scale and polish is considered as common practice within the world of dental hygiene and is also commonly referred to as a ‘cosmetic clean’. Using a combination of special dental brushes and pastes our team will remove any built-up plaque from the surface of your smile!

What causes tartar on the surface of the teeth?

The accumulation of oral bacteria on the surface of the teeth is extremely common with patients of all ages, many individuals however may be unsure of the exact cause! The accumulation of sugary food and drink can build up on the surface of the teeth (if not removed to a high enough standard when brushing). Over time this can harden into a layer of plaque on the surface of the patient’s smile!

When we think of oral care, the first thing that comes to mind is the teeth and we may often gloss over the importance of the gums. In fact, the gums play a vital role in keeping the teeth protected and well-cushioned as they fit into the bone. We at Benhill Dental Practice know how important it is to look after them with the same care and attention that you give your teeth; to have healthy gums in Sutton is to have good overall oral health and they are not to be overlooked.

Problems with the gums

Gum disease begins with bacterial growth in your mouth that forms in the plaque buildup on the teeth. This can develop with anyone and has at least two stages where you will notice its effects:

Gingivitis – A mild form of gum disease that affects the part of the gum that is in direct contact with the base of the tooth, gingivitis can cause redness, swelling, and even bleeding and if left untreated can turn into periodontitis.

Periodontitis – This is a serious gum infection that affects all of the gum surrounding the tooth and damages the soft tissue of this area by pulling the gum away from the tooth. Forming a pocket that fills with more plaque and bacteria which then eats away at and destroys the bone surrounding the tooth, if it goes untreated it can cause the tooth to become loose and fall out.

What causes gum disease

For healthy gums in Sutton you need to understand the causes of gum disease in order to help you possibly avoid gingivitis:

Hormone changes – during menopause, pregnancy, or even menstruation can make the gums more sensitive and put them at a higher risk of picking up a bacterial infection.

Immune disease – diseases that attack your body’s own immunity will put the gums at a higher risk of picking up a bacterial infection that caused gingivitis.

Medications – Some medications can lessen the flow of saliva and cause a dry mouth. In this case, it is easier to get gum disease because the natural functions that keep your mouth clean are lessened.

Tobacco – Smoking, and dipping make it difficult for the gums to heal themselves and as they are under a constant attack from these products; you are far more likely to get gingivitis than those who do not partake.

Poor oral hygiene – Bad habits like not brushing and flossing on a daily basis can lead to a build-up of plaque which is the perfect place for gingivitis, causing bacteria to breed.

Treatment at the dentist

It is important to visit your dentist regularly to make sure you maintain healthy gums in Sutton and if you experience any changes in your gum health then we encourage patients to seek medical advice before allowing the situation to worsen.

Prevention at home

Maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen daily will keep the gums healthy and the teeth plaque-free and not allow plaque to sit long enough to grow bacteria: brush, floss and, rinse daily to keep on top of your gum health.

It’s not just your teeth that must be properly taken care of, but also your gums. By neglecting your gums, you’re at risk of developing gum disease, which can sometimes, it’s believed, exacerbate the symptoms of people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or dementia. 

At Benhill Dental Practice, we try to educate the public not just about how to keep gums healthy, but to also identify the first signs of gum disease for early treatment.

In this article, we’ll answer your most pressing questions. ‘Why are gums so important?’ ‘What diseases can you contract?’ ‘How can you prevent them from occurring?’

What role do gums play?

Gums are a cushy tissue that surrounds your teeth. The role of gums is not just to protect your teeth, but also your underlying bone from infection. Essentially, healthy tissue acts as a barrier against disease-causing oral bacteria.

If you don’t adhere to dental hygiene best practices, your gums can no longer protect your teeth from the onslaught of germs effectively, which can result in significant tooth loss.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a gum disease in its infancy stages. The condition is caused by bad attention to oral health, which can include infrequent brushing. This can cause a situation where bacteria-housing plaque accumulates on the surfaces of your teeth while causing gum inflammation.

If gingivitis is not treated in time, periodontitis occurs. This advanced infection has the potential to destroy a tooth’s bony structure, resulting in avoidable tooth loss.

How do I know if I have gingivitis?

The first signs of gingivitis are swollen gums that bleed easily when you brush, floss, or eat.

Other more advanced symptoms include receding gums, bad breath, and gum sensitivity.

Can gum disease be treated and reversed?

Disease-causing bacteria can be eradicated from your mouth with a deep clean called ‘scaling and root planing’. This procedure entails using tools to scrape bacteria from the surfaces and roots of your teeth.

Antibiotics may be needed if the gum disease is already advanced.

What are some preventive measures I can take to ensure healthy gums in Sutton?

Brush and floss daily

Brush and floss twice a day without fail. Dedicate two to three minutes to every brush. Flossing is necessary, not an optional extra, because it can reach food that’s trapped in the crevices of your teeth.

If you have wide gaps between your teeth or have bridges, we recommend that you use interdental brushes.

Give up smoking

Findings have shown that smoking is a risk factor for gum disease, with smokers at higher risk than non-smokers.

Watch your diet

What you eat affects the overall state of your mouth. By giving up sweets, sugary drinks and takeaways, and instead opting for a diet rich in vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fatty fish, your dental health will vastly improve.

Don’t skip your scheduled dental appointments

Your dentist or dental hygienist can clean your teeth, remove harmful bacteria, and spot the first signs of gum disease before the condition worsens.

Remember, gum disease is both preventable and reversible! Take care of your mouth for healthy gums in Sutton.

Your teeth are set into the jawbone, where they are held in place by fleshy ligaments. The bone is covered with flesh known as the gums and this comes down over the teeth, offering protection over the site where bone meets tooth.

Gums are a bit like the seal you find around places that get wet. Around your shower head, for example. If you don’t take care of the seals around things, bacteria can get in underneath and start to pull the seal out of place. It’s the same with gums, only when the gums start to pull away, it’s your teeth and jawbone that are affected.

That’s why, when you think about your oral hygiene, you need to have healthy gums as well as healthy teeth. Here at Benhill Dental Practice in Sutton, you will find that our dentists and hygienists are just as interested in the health of your gums as they are in that of your teeth.

Check-ups and healthy gums

When you come for a check-up at Benhill Dental Practice, the dentist won’t only be looking at your teeth for decay. They will also be on the lookout for gum disease.

The early signs of gum disease are red, inflamed gums that bleed easily. If we see signs of gingivitis, we will talk to you about your oral health routine and what you can do to improve it.

If the dentist sees signs of the gums pulling away from the sockets, then you are already in a more advanced state of gum disease. When the gums are pulling away from the sockets, it means that plaque and bacteria can get underneath and start attacking your tooth roots (which have no enamel over them) and the bone surrounding your teeth. This later stage of gum disease is known as periodontitis. Treatment for this is more invasive. We may have to plane away any infected or corroded areas under your gums. We may have to sew your gums back in place to tighten them up around your teeth.

If you want to know more about ways to have healthy gums, please ask either the dentist or the hygienist next time you come in.