The Importance of Healthy Gums

Periodontal pockets are often the first step toward gum disease. These spaces between the gums and teeth make ideal spots for bacteria and food to gather and grow. Make no mistake—gum disease can cause inflammation and bleeding that quickly becomes a huge problem.

The gums should be healthy next to the teeth. Periodontal disease creates spaces that allow bacteria in between the teeth and gums, and once it’s there, it can wreak havoc. Periodontal pockets are a common sign of gum disease, but they’re one that many people don’t recognize as a problem until it’s too late.

Lots of people think that brushing their teeth is enough to prevent periodontal pockets. Spoiler alert: it’s not. A toothbrush alone doesn’t reach between the teeth where bacteria and food congregate. Without flossing, there’s no way to get rid of the plaque between your teeth. This can lead to costly dental procedures when the tartar (hardened food and bacteria) eventually needs to be removed by a professional.

When a dental hygienist removes the plaque, they clean under the gum tissue. Sometimes they’ll smooth out the tooth, so there’s less chance of the bacteria growing there again later.

A one-time removal isn’t enough, though. Proper dental hygiene must be maintained, or the pockets will only get deeper. This will eventually lead to irreversible bone and tissue loss, at which point dental problems only worsen. Even after the dental hygienist cleans under the gumline, the area is still vulnerable to bacteria while the tissue heals.

Flossing is the best way to avoid gum disease and return the gums to their normal, healthy state, and there are plenty of ways to do it. ToothShower is an easy, no-mess option that cleans deeper than thread floss and other water flossers. This method not only removes the bacteria beneath the gums but cleans the area as well—a vital part of preventative dental care.

Periodontal pockets can be prevented and healed at home, even after professional intervention. In fact, home care is necessary no matter what, and it’s better to start sooner rather than later. It makes a difference down the road and can mean a person keeps their natural teeth far longer than without proper preventative care. Periodontal pockets can create massive problems that may not seem like a big deal at first, but they will be if they’re not addressed.