Gum Health & Bleeding Assessment

The Foundations of Good Oral Hygiene

• Brushing Technique: Brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush at 45 degrees towards the gum line and use gentle, circular motions. Don't forget to brush your tongue.
• The Importance of Flossing: Flossing daily is non-negotiable. It removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line where your toothbrush can't reach. If you find flossing difficult, consider using floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.
• Antiseptic Mouthwash: Using an antiseptic or anti-gingivitis mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and plaque, but it is a supplement to, not a replacement for, brushing and flossing.
• Diet and Hydration: A balanced diet low in sugar and acidic foods helps protect your teeth and gums. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
• Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar (hardened plaque). See your dentist regularly (typically every 6-12 months) for check-ups and cleanings to catch problems early.

Understanding the Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.

Stage 1: Gingivitis

This is the earliest stage of gum disease. It's an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If you have gingivitis, your gums might be red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is reversible with professional treatment and good home oral care, as the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.

Stage 2: Periodontitis

If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These small spaces between teeth and gums collect debris and can become infected. The body's immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line.

Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque—as well as the body's "good" enzymes involved in fighting infections—start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. When this happens, teeth are no longer anchored in place, they become loose, and tooth loss occurs.