904.389.1376 1511 Stockton Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

904.389.1376 1511 Stockton Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

  • Home
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Team
    • Why Choose Berdy Dental Group?
  • Dental Care
    • General & Family Dentistry
      • Clear Aligners
      • Comprehensive Dental Exam
      • Cosmetic Dentistry
      • Dental Fillings
      • Dental Implants
      • Removable Partial Dentures
      • Root Canal
      • Same Day Crowns and Bridges
      • Sinus Lift
      • Teeth Whitening
    • Periodontal Dentistry
      • ARESTIN® Treatment
      • Gum Disease Prevention
      • Oral Cancer Screening
      • Periodontal Disease Types
      • Periodontal Exam
      • Periodontal Maintenance
      • Periodontal Surgery FAQ’s
      • Pinhole Technique
      • Scaling and Root Planing
      • Soft Tissue Graft
    • Dental Technology
      • 3D Cone Beam Imaging
      • 3D Printing
      • Digital X-Rays
      • Laser Gum Therapy (LANAP)
      • Same-Day Dentistry
  • Patient Info
    • Patient Forms
    • Financial Options
    • Blog
    • Newsletters
  • Reviews
  • Contact Us
  • Home
  • Meet Our Team
  • Why Choose Berdy Dental Group?
  • General & Family Dentistry
  • Periodontal Dentistry
  • Dental Technology
  • Patient Info
  • Reviews
  • Contact Us

How Gum Health is Linked to Overall Health

It has long been noted that the health of your gums is linked to the health of your entire body. In fact, one recent study found that patients with gum disease were more likely to suffer serious complications after contracting COVID-19. September is National Gum Month, and many local dentists are taking the opportunity to educate patients on the importance of proper gum care.

Dr. Berdy joined the WJXT Morning Show weekend team to unpack why gum health is so crucial as well as the best ways to avoid gum disease. Continue reading to learn more, or view the full News4Jax segment here. 

Why Gum Health is Especially Important for Oral Hygiene

Gum health is the foundation for overall oral hygiene. When your gums are properly cared for, they protect your teeth and provide a barrier to bacteria. Not only does this prevent dental problems, such as plaque buildup and cavities, it can also help you stay healthier in general.

Various studies have found that oral health is essentially a window to your overall health. So not only can poor oral health point to bigger issues within the mouth, but a lack of oral hygiene can actually affect the entire body.

Similar to other areas of the body, mouths are comprised of bacteria – though most of it is harmless. However, our mouths are the point of entry to reach both the digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of that bacteria can contribute to the development of disease, including endocarditis, cardiovascular disease and most directly, periodontitis, also known as chronic gum disease.

While gum health has always been important, today’s climate makes it that much more crucial. One study notes that those who suffer from gum disease are more likely to experience severe complications if they contract COVID-19, and it even suggests that physicians check incoming COVID patients for gum disease to be prepared for closer monitoring.

Best Practices to Care for Your Gums

The best method to maintain oral health, including healthy gums, is to practice good oral hygiene daily. At Berdy Dental Group we recommend:

  • Brushing your teeth twice daily, with toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritation. Plus, be sure to replace your toothbrush at least every three months to avoid bacteria buildup. 
  • Flossing each day to ensure both a deep clean, and to remove remaining bacteria that can be missed with brushing alone.
  • Using mouthwash to rid your mouth of any remaining food particles/bacteria. Consider keeping a travel-size mini mouthwash in your bag, too so that you can quickly rinse your mouth even when you’re on-the-go. The longer food particles sit in your mouth, the worse it is for your gums.
  • Incorporating a Water Pik in the process. We recommend using the Water Pik first, and then flossing. Follow this by brushing for 2 minutes, focusing along the gum line as you brush since this is where the germs that cause gum infection hide. Finally, Water Pik again to rinse all the loose debris and germs away.  Don’t forget to also clean the top of your tongue, as germs also like to hide there!

Signs of Problems with Your Gums and When to Head to the Dentist

A study published by the American Dental Association found that more than 4 in 10 adults have some form of gum disease – some may not even realize that their symptoms point to this condition.

The most common symptoms to watch for include:

  • Constant bad breath
  • Swollen gums that are extra red in color
  • Sensitive or loose teeth
  • Receding gum line
  • Bleeding gums

Each of these are reason enough to schedule a dentist appointment, but the most common symptoms that bring patients into Berdy Dental Group are gum swelling and bleeding.

Gum care should be practiced at home each day, but one of the best ways to keep your oral health in top shape is to regularly visit the dentist for cleanings. Not only will this help rid your mouth of extra plaque buildup and get your teeth sparkling, it can show if you are in the early stages of developing gingivitis or gum disease.

Home > Patient Info > Blog

ADDITIONAL POSTS

National Dentist's Day

March 6 is National Dentist’s Day – an opportunity to spotlight the importance of regular dental cleanings and checkups as well as the professionals who help patients through prevention. According to the CDC, nearly 32 percent of adults between the ages 20 and 44 have untreated cavities. Dr. Christian Berdy of Berdy Dental Group joined […]

3D Printing in Dentistry

The use of 3D printing has revolutionized everything from crafting to construction – but it also has a rapidly growing role in medicine, specifically dentistry. In fact, the global dental 3D printing market is projected to reach $6.5 billion by 2025 from $1.8 billion in 2020. And while 3D printing in dentistry may seem unusual, dentists have found that it […]

Worst Holiday Foods for Your Smile

For many, the holidays aren’t complete without indulgent holiday favorites like candy canes, caramel, and eggnog. But these sugary sweets can wreak havoc on your teeth if not consumed in moderation. According to Colgate, sugar is the main culprit to watch for during the holiday season, but it’s important to beware of sticky and starchy foods […]

Home | About Us | Dental Care | Patient Info | Reviews | Contact Us

Tel: 904-389-1376 | 1511 Stockton Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

© Copyright 2019 Berdy Dental Group. All rights reserved. - Privacy Policy

Request Appointment

Appointment
Preferred Time *