When you go to the dental office for your regular cleanings and checkups, your dentist isn’t only focused on the health of your teeth. They are also checking the surrounding tissue for signs of oral health problems. If your gums appear soft or spongy, this could mean that you have gum disease. This condition is incredibly common and affects nearly half of Americans over the age of 30. Read on to learn more about gum disease and some steps you can take to keep your gums healthy.
Why Are Your Gums Soft & Spongy?
There are a variety of reasons why your gums could be soft and spongy. Here are a couple of the most common culprits.
- Vitamin C Deficiency: This isn’t very common in today’s world, but a severe vitamin C deficiency, better known as “scurvy,” can cause the gums to be soft and spongy. The good news is that this can easily be prevented with a balanced diet.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease is very common, and many people don’t even realize that they have it. This is an infection of the gum tissue. Symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums. In most cases, gum disease is cause by poor oral hygiene, but there are other factors that can play a role, like diabetes and hormonal changes.
How Can You Prevent Soft, Spongy Gums?
Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. Here are some that you should implement.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Having a healthy, diverse diet is important. Your body relies on numerous vitamins and minerals to thrive. If you are deficient in one or more, you can start to experience negative symptoms throughout your body. Remember to keep up a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Brush Carefully: Brushing too hard can irritate the gum tissue. Use proper technique when brushing your teeth and don’t press too hard. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and invest in a new one every few months.
- Floss Regularly: Flossing helps to remove food debris and plaque that builds up between the teeth and along the gumline. By flossing every day, you can significantly lower your risk of developing gum disease.
- See Your Dentist: Regular cleanings and checkups are key when it comes to putting a stop to issues before they become serious. If your dentist notices early signs of gum disease, they can give you pointers to reverse it. Gum disease treatment can also help to reverse the effects and prevent further infection.
If you have noticed abnormal changes to your gum tissue, it is a good idea to address it with your dentist. This way, you can work towards a healthy, happy smile!
About the Practice
At NU Dental Barnegat, Dr. Admasu Gizachew, Dr. Glenn Marie and Dr. Mark Henin work together to treat patients in the Barnegat community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (609) 879-0036.