When you work really hard at something, it’s always a pleasure to see the results of your diligence: an A on a test after many hours of study, defined muscles after months of gym sessions, eating a delicious meal that you prepared yourself . . . What about your oral health? If you’re dedicated to brushing and flossing with care each day, you probably want to know that your commitment is paying off. Getting a thumbs-up from your dental hygienist is wonderful, and it’s always a relief when your dentist confirms you have no cavities, but you can also see your hard work in the state of your gums. A solid oral health routine will inevitably result in healthy gums. So, what do healthy gums look like? Below, we’ll review their defining qualities and characteristics.
How to Spot Healthy Gums
- Pink, Light Pink, or Brown in Color: The color of healthy gums varies just as skin color varies. Healthy gums are typically light pink or pink, but they may appear brown or black in people with more melanin, which is the dark brown or black pigment that gives skin its color. Dark pink and red gums are a sign of periodontal disease. Often, you will notice this color change first along the gum line. If you aren’t sure whether your gums are a healthy color, ask your dental hygienist. In addition, if you notice a change in the color of your gums, you may have cause for concern. Keep an eye on the color of your gums so that you’ll notice if it evolves over time.
- Smooth and Firm: Your gums should be tightly contoured around each tooth, hugging the tooth in a firm grip. They should be tightly attached to your teeth and feel firm and resilient. They shouldn’t move when you touch them.
- Papilla: There should be an interdental papilla — a small projection of tissue that fills in the space between two teeth — between each of your teeth. If you’re missing papilla, it may appear as though there’s a small black triangle in the gap between your teeth.
- Not Swollen, Inflamed, Bleeding, or Otherwise Uncomfortable: If your gums are healthy, you shouldn’t have any trouble eating a variety of foods or brushing and flossing your teeth without incident. If you have gum disease, on the other hand, your gums may feel sore or tender, or you may see pink in the sink when you spit after brushing your teeth. Your gums will likely also bleed when you visit the dentist’s office for a professional cleaning.
- No Concerning Abnormalities: Oral cancer can produce many symptoms, so it’s wise to watch out for any suspicious changes in your gums. Gum abnormalities include red or white patches, sores that won’t heal, and rough or crusty spots. But if any aspect of your gums concerns you, point it out to your dentist so you can get a professional evaluation.
_____
What do healthy gums look like? If you’re curious if your own gums are in good health, simply ask your dental hygienist or dentist at your next appointment. They can hand you a mirror and point out specific facets that indicate good gum health or poor gum health. Then, you can either pat yourself on the back for taking good care of your gums or make a few mental notes of habits that need adjusting.
If you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Dr. Wilkinson and his team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. For exceptional and comprehensive dental care, schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!