I never thought I would ever encounter gum problems in my young life. I always thought these are for adults. Looking at the mirror I was so surprise at my gums are red, tender and bloated. I scheduled a check up with my dentist. Our family dentist gave me her diagnosis; to my surprise she said I have swollen gums. I asked her how did I get this type of gum problem and she gave me quite a few guidelines or causes of this terrible situation:
1. Pregnancy. Woman who are pregnant are prone to gum problems such as receding gums and swollen gums. This is due to the hormonal changes of the woman’s body. According to my dentist this is actually normal. However, this must not be taken for granted because there is a great possibility that pregnant women will give birth in an unexpected time. This is what they call preterm birth which is very risky for both the mother and the baby.
2. Poor dental hygiene. When you ignore brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing and flossing can be as simple as ABC; however this is over the most ignored personal task. When a person disregard washing his or her teeth plaques will soon accumulate and leads to swollen gums. Furthermore, if untreated at the earlier stage, bad breath will occur. People who have foul breath are most likely ignored or left behind by many people.
3. Immune system is weak. If your body does not have enough fighting cells to resist sickness then you are prone to gums problems. Not only that, other serious health problems can also be acquired. Therefore, learn how to boost your immune system by eating plenty of nutritious foods and drinks.
4. Smoking. Cigarette smoking or chewing of tobacco can heighten the growth of gum diseases in your mouth. It will also weaken your immune system which gives way to more health problems.
Generally, there are many causes of gum problems according to my dentist. But this can be avoided by simply follow a good oral hygiene. This is to brush and floss my teeth regularly. I should make sure that I eat healthy food and avoid sweet foods such as ice cream, icing and cake. Although, they are my favorite but I have to let them go for my own good. I do not smoke; therefore it is an advantage on my part.
Tags: oral hygiene, swollen gums