uring this season of love, while you’re busy showering your loved ones with affection, don’t forget an important part of your own health that often gets overlooked: your gums!
Healthy gums are more than just the foundation for a beautiful smile; they’re a vital part of your overall well-being. Whether you’ve been keeping up with stellar oral care or you’re in need of a fresh start, our periodontist in Manhattan at Group Health Dental can help you show some TLC to your gums this February.
What Periodontists Do—and Why Your Gums Need Them
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. They also handle complex oral health issues related to your gums and the supporting tissues of your teeth. Your gums need this extra help if you’ve noticed:
- Bleeding When Brushing
- Persistent Bad Breath
- Gum Recession (Long Teeth)
- Loose Teeth
Manhattan’s fast-paced lifestyle may tempt you to push dental care to the bottom of your to-do list, but your gum health deserves your attention. Gum disease can often progress silently, meaning it may not cause pain or noticeable problems until it has already advanced. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 42% of Americans 30 and up have periodontitis, the more serious form of gum disease.
A caring and knowledgeable Manhattan periodontist can detect subtle signs of gum disease early, giving you the best chance to reverse the damage and restore healthy gums.
Show Your Gums Some Love
Just as relationships thrive on attention and care, so does your periodontal health. Here are a few simple but effective ways you can love your gums.
1. Clean the Right Way
Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for preventing plaque buildup. But don’t stop there—flossing and rinsing are game-changers for gum health.
Flossing removes debris and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, preventing inflammation and the onset of gum disease. Start with this step, then rinse with mouthwash to clean away debris loosened by flossing. Cap off your routine with brushing for a fresh finish.
2. Eat for Gum Health
The foods you consume play a significant role in your oral health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as they are essentially fuel for bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria love sugars, which they turn into acids that can eat away at enamel and cause inflammation in your gums.
By contrast, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides the nutrients your gums need to stay strong and resilient. Vitamin C is a particular favorite of our Manhattan periodontist due to its ability to strengthen gums.
3. Quit Tobacco Products
Smoking and other tobacco products are major risk factors for gum disease. The chemicals in tobacco affect your body’s ability to heal and fight infections, making it harder for your gums to recover from damage. By quitting tobacco, you’re giving your gums the best chance to thrive.
4. Visit Our Periodontist in Manhattan Regularly
Routine dental checkups at Group Health Dental can address gum health concerns and catch issues early. Once our Manhattan periodontists spot a problem, we can create a treatment plan to restore your gums to optimal health.
Why Gum Health Matters Beyond Valentine’s Day
Your gums and your heart are actually connected. Poor gum health has been linked to a variety of systemic health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Taking care of your gums can reduce inflammation in your body and lower your risk for these conditions.
If you’re planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a candlelit dinner or a day of pampering, remember that healthy gums also contribute to fresh breath and strong teeth, helping you feel your best when you’re with the people who matter most.
Finding a Compassionate Periodontist in Manhattan
Chances are, your gums are already a little underappreciated. You deserve a care provider who’s going to provide the best possible periodontal treatment. A compassionate periodontist will partner with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and helps you reach your oral health goals—in other words, an oral healthcare provider who cares about you as a person.
That’s us. We don’t just treat your gums and send you out the door. We’re here to foster good health and a good relationship with you. Put simply, we provide TLC for both you and your gums.
Give Your Gums the Gift of Care
This Valentine’s Day, make a promise to care for yourself as much as you care for others. Your gums work hard every day to protect your teeth and support your overall health—it’s time to give them the attention they deserve. Book a visit to Group Health Dental today for help from a Manhattan periodontist.
