Good daily dental habits not only keep your teeth clean and your breath fresh. These habits are vital to the good health of your gums as well. Our trained professionals are glad to share their knowledge with you, and everything you do to keep your gums healthy makes your smile that much brighter, and our job that much easier! If you have questions about the state of your gums, don’t keep them to yourself!
Healthy gums appear:
- Pink and puffy. They have some looseness and don’t stick tightly to the teeth
- Pink and firm. They adhere tightly to the teeth
- Dark purple
- Pale white
ANSWER 2 is correct. There are individual differences in gum coloration, but overall they should be pinkish in color, and have a smooth, tight bond with each tooth. Gums that are puffy and swollen, or dark in color may signal early gum disease. Gums that are noticeably white may signal poor brushing habits, anemia, infection or other issues.
Healthy gums will experience bleeding:
- Once or twice a week, especially when you brush or floss
- Never or almost never
- Frequently
ANSWER 2 is correct. Healthy gums should rarely bleed. Gums that bleed with brushing and flossing are sending the signal they need attention. This bleeding is almost certainly a sign of early gum disease (gingivitis) and in many cases gums can be restored to a healthy condition by careful attention to proper brushing and flossing.
How often is bad breath a normal part of life:
- Occasionally, usually after eating specific foods
- Occasionally, when there hasn’t been time to brush after eating
- Frequently
- Most of the time
BOTH ANSWER 1 and ANSWER 2 are both correct. There are some foods that are noted for carrying odors into the bloodstream as they are digested. When the blood circulates through the lungs, the odors are breathed out. This type of bad breath usually responds well to a breath mint or a change in diet. Harmless (though maybe unpleasant) odor can occur when you haven’t been able to brush after a meal, or when you first wake up in the morning. These odors are usually caused by the interaction of the natural bacteria in your mouth as it feeds on microscopic food particles. One byproduct is an unpleasant smell. Brushing twice a day, and rinsing your mouth between meals when you are unable to brush will usually help this type of bad breath. C and D almost always signal problems that need professional attention.
ABOUT YOUR ANKENY PREVENTIVE DENTIST:
Since 2006, Dr. Amanda Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your Ankeny, IA dentist today. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230.
