You look in the mirror one day and you notice that your gums are beet red and swollen. Brushing is also a pain as your gums are tender and bleed easily. So what are red gums? Why do people have them? For starters, red gums signify an underlying dental condition. It could be a gum infection, such as gingivitis. When bacteria build up in the mouth, it eats through your gum tissues as well as the bones around your teeth. They also secrete tartar which could harden to plaque and could cause even more dental problems.
When you have red gums, it is best to see a dentist immediately. It could be a sign that your gums are infected and would require immediate attention. Your dentist will be able to determine the severity of your gum infection and could prescribe medication for you. Depending on the severity of your gum infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or medicated mouthwash to stop the infection as well as keep the bacteria level in check. On extreme cases, however, they may recommend dental surgery, gum grafting or even dental pocket filling to allow the teeth and gum tissues to heal.
However, you won’t have to suffer from red and swollen gums. By following good dental health practices, you will be able to lessen your chances of suffering from gum infection which causes swollen and red gums as well as bad breath. Brushing regularly helps prevent buildup of plaque and tartar which could widen the gap between gums and teeth and give more space for bacteria to develop. Flossing, too can help prevent bacteria buildup inside the mouth as it helps remove food particles stuck between teeth. You just need to remember not to force the floss between teeth as this could damage your gums and make it more susceptible to infection.
A healthy diet rich in vitamins A, B, B Complex, C and Calcium can help strengthen your teeth and boost your immune system, which keeps your teeth and gums away from infection. Opt for increased fruit and vegetable intake as these foods are rich in these vitamins. Dairy products such as cheese and milk contain enough calcium which strengthens your teeth enamel and keep it from decaying easily. On the other hand, foods rich in sugar, starch and fat are to be avoided, if not minimized as these could promote bacterial growth in the mouth. Sugar gets converted into acids by bacteria and these acids contribute to the eventual deterioration of your teeth and gum tissues. That is why it is recommended to brush your teeth after eating sweets so as not to let sugar accumulate on your teeth for a very long time.