Oral Hygiene

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Healthy Gums Facts

Protect your smile with healthy Gums

What are Healthy Gums

Why are Healthy Gums Important

How to maintain Healthy Gums

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FAQ

Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong smile. Keeping your gums in good condition prevents gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health issues. Maintaining healthy gums through good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is essential to your overall well-being. Healthy gums are firm, pink, and free from inflammation or bleeding.

What are Healthy Gums?

Your gums are the soft tissues that surround and support your teeth. They are attached to and surround each tooth, protecting the underlying bone from bacteria and plaque. Healthy gums are firm, pink in colour, and do not bleed when you brush or floss. Gum disease can develop if plaque builds up along the gumline, leading to gingivitis (early gum disease) and subsequently periodontitis (advanced gum disease), which can cause tooth loss if left untreated.

Why are Healthy Gums Important?

Prevents Gum Disease: Healthy gums are less likely to develop gum disease, which can cause pain, inflammation, and even tooth loss.
Supports Overall Health: Studies have shown that gum disease is linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Keeping your gums healthy reduces these risks.
Reduces Risk of Tooth Loss: Gum disease weakens the support structures around your teeth, leading to tooth loss if not treated. Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth.
Improves Aesthetics: Healthy gums contribute to a bright, confident smile and help prevent issues like bad breath, receding gums, or gum sensitivity.
Promotes Oral Comfort: Healthy gums ensure that your teeth and mouth feel comfortable, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort or bleeding.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums

Brush your teeth twice a da

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (either manual or electric) and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for two minutes. Make sure to gently brush along the gumline to remove plaque buildup.

Floss Daily

Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas your toothbrush can't reach.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and gum examinations. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and provide treatment before it progresses.

Use Antibacterial Mouthwash

Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria that can lead to gum disease and keep your gums healthy.

Quit Smoking

Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your gum health.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and vitamin C, supports strong teeth and healthy gums.

Maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy between check-ups.
Follow any specific advice or treatment recommendations provided by your dentist to address any dental concerns.
Schedule your next check-up every six months to stay on top of your oral health.

Bupa Extras Benefits

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to preventing costly dental treatments in the future. Here's a breakdown of costs associated with oral hygiene:

Routine Cleanings: Professional dental cleanings typically cost between $100 and $200 per visit, depending on your location and dental insurance coverage.
Insurance Claims: Many health insurance plans, including Bupa, cover the cost of routine dental cleanings and exams as part of preventive care. Be sure to check your policy for specific coverage details.
Flexible Payment Plans: We offer flexible payment options to ensure you can maintain regular dental care without financial strain.

maintaining your oral health has never been easier, withaccess to a range of benefits:

Comprehensive Coverage: Bupa covers the cost of preventive care, including routine check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments, ensuring you stay on top of your oral hygiene routine.
Member-Only Discounts: Enjoy exclusive discounts on additional treatments or services not covered by insurance, such as whitening or other cosmetic services.
Health and Well-being Programs: Bupa offers well-being programs to help you maintain your oral health and overall wellness.

Ready to Book Your Appointment?

A solid oral hygiene routine is essential for protecting your teeth and gums. Here's how you can stay on track:

Initial Consultation: Book a consultation with our dental experts to assess your oral hygiene and receive personalised tips on maintaining your smile.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular cleanings and check-ups to catch any potential issues early and keep your teeth in top condition.
Flexible Scheduling: We offer convenient appointment times to fit your busy schedule and ensure you stay on top of your oral health routine.

Find your nearest Bupa Dental Clinic

Find your local Bupa Dental, Clearly Dental or Independent Bupa Dental clinic today.

Frequently asked questions

Healthy gums should be pink, firm, and not bleed when you brush or floss. If your gums are swollen, red, or bleed frequently, it may be a sign of gum disease.

It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for routine check-ups and professional cleanings. If you have gum disease or are at risk, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits

In its early stages (gingivitis), gum disease can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene and professional treatment. However, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) requires more intensive treatment to manage and stabilise the condition.

Occasional bleeding can be a sign of gum irritation, but frequent bleeding may indicate gum disease. Visit your dentist to assess your gum health and receive appropriate treatment.

Yes, research has shown that gum disease is linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Maintaining healthy gums supports your overall health.