Why are healthy gums so important? 

Before we talk about the ins and outs of gum care, we need to have a brief look at why healthy gums are so important. There are a few key reasons you should pay particular attention to oral health, especially gum cleaning:¹

• Our gums surround our teeth. They are the main foundation of our teeth, ensuring each tooth sits firmly in our mouth. 
• Poor oral care can lead to infections and gum disease. If plaque isn’t removed from your teeth with regular brushing, it can build up and irritate your gums, ultimately causing gum disease.
• Improper gum care can pose a direct threat to the teeth. Gum disease can ultimately lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out.
• Healthy gums are the prerequisite for healthy teeth and subsequently a healthy body. Lacking oral hygiene can cause gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

While certain medications, stress, smoking and a lack of vitamins are all contributing factors to poor oral health, a lack of gum care not only causes bad oral health, but studies have shown it can cause heart disease, too.^9,10

Oral healthcare and heart disease: the case for healthy gums

In 2023, Philips has partnered with the Swedish Heart Lung Foundation for its ‘Brush for your Heart’ campaign to raise awareness about the connection between oral healthcare and heart health. The campaign emphasizes that individuals who take good care of their mouth are more likely to have healthier hearts than those who neglect their teeth and gums.^9,10

Growing consensus about the link between oral health and heart health

Studies have shown that individuals with periodontitis, or gum disease, are at risk of heart disease and other heart problems. Although further research is being done to understand the connection between oral health and heart health, there is a growing consensus about this link.¹¹ However, public awareness of this connection remains low, with over 60% of respondents to one of our surveys being unaware of the link between good oral health and heart disease.¹²

The link between healthy gums and heart health

Poor oral healthcare, such as inadequate brushing of teeth, can lead to a build-up of plaque and harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can cause gum disease.¹ However, it is now believed that these bacteria can also enter the bloodstream and potentially cause problems in other parts of the body, including the heart, stomach, and toes.¹³

Importance of good gum cleaning

To maintain healthy gums and reduce the risk of heart disease, individuals should prioritize good oral healthcare practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Electric toothbrushes, like those offered by Philips Sonicare, can remove up to 10 times more plaque than manual toothbrushes and are an effective way to stay on top of oral healthcare. Over 70% of consumers believe that Philips Sonicare can help them improve their oral health, and over 75% of consumers said they would switch to an electric toothbrush.¹²

Top tips for periodontitis treatment and prevention

Individuals can reduce their risk of gum disease and maintain healthy gums by following simple steps, such as brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and quitting smoking. Additionally, regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning can help prevent and treat gum disease.

What are the symptoms of poor gum care and unhealthy gums?

Now you know why it is so important to keep up with your gum cleaning and overall gum care, but do you know how to spot unhealthy gums? Any of the following symptoms can indicate that you need to seek help to heal your gums: 

• Light bleeding of the gums when brushing
• Swollen or sensitive gums
• Purple discolouration instead of a healthy pink
• Bad breath

Do gums heal on their own? Unfortunately, you can’t reverse receding gums which is why prevention is so important. Once gums are damaged, it’s not possible to reverse the damage. However, if you suffer from any of the above symptoms, visit your dentist, who will present you with the best methods to tackle the damage and prevent it from becoming more extensive.