Why Is Gum Health So Important?

While perhaps not as well publicized as tooth care, the importance of healthy gums to keeping a healthy mouth cannot be overstated. Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile as they protect your teeth’s roots and the bones of your jaw.

Neglecting your gums can lead to some rather unpleasant health issues. Poor oral hygiene can result in halitosis, the medical term for bad breath. If bacteria builds up in your mouth, the toxins produced can cause your breath to smell.

You may also contract gum disease, such as Gingivitis, which can leave your gums swollen, red and prone to bleeding. If untreated, gum disease can lead to periodontitis, where plaque grows below the gum line and gums start to separate from the teeth. This can result in damaged gum tissue, damaged to the bones of the jaw and tooth loss. The good news is, all of these issues are preventable if you use the simple tips listed below.

Staying Healthy

• See your dentist at least twice a year – A recent study revealed that 33% of adults in the U.S have not visited the dentist in the last year. To maintain oral health, it is important that you visit your dentist at least twice a year. In addition to being able to spot and treat common dental hygiene issues, the dentist will also be able to clean and scale your teeth and gums, improving your long term oral health.

• Use proper brushing techniques – Brushing your teeth is only effective if you are using the proper techniques. Remember, brushing too hard, or for too long, can damage your gums, you should use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush along the gum line in a gentle circular motion for a full two minutes.

• Use an electric toothbrush – Modern electric toothbrushes are far more effective than using a manual toothbrush, with many of them having an oscillating motion that efficiently cleans the gum line and some even have a timer that will tell you when two minutes of brushing has passed.

• Floss every day – Flossing helps to remove food particles caught between your teeth and gum line that standard brushing can’t reach. If not removed, these food particles can become a breeding ground for bacteria and are a potential cause of gum disease.

• Assess your diet – Your diet can have a significant impact on the health of your gums and teeth. As a rule it is best to avoid sugary snacks and drinks as they can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. If you do consume foods that are high in sugar or natural acids then it is best to brush your teeth directly after eating them.

Training To Help Others

Employment for entry-level employment in the dental field is expected to increase 23% over the next 10 years, faster than average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here at Northwest Career College, our Dental Assisting Program prepares students to work in any dental office. Our Dental Assistant Training Course gives you all the key skills and experience you’ll need to find the best dental assisting employment opportunity in Las Vegas.

Our Dental Assistant School offers morning, afternoon and night classes to accommodate your busy work and family schedule, an expansive, nine operatory lab provides students with real-life dental office experience and our established, seasoned instructors have helped our students achieve a 91% national exam pass rate.
Our student-focused approach will help you cultivate the skills you will need to stand out in the dental assisting field. Our experienced Career Services team will work with you to help you find the best dental administrative assistant employment opportunities in Las Vegas. Call one of our enrollment specialists at (702) 403-1592 to find out more.