Gum Tissue: A Look Into Overall Health
We all need to practice some sort of oral hygiene routine daily. Gum tissue is often overlooked as an important part of overall health. There is a lot to be learned from observing gum tissue. Here is a quick overview of gum tissue, disorders that can be associated with gum dis-ease, and supplemental support.
Gum tissue can vary in color, ranging from pink to dark pink, ideally described as coral. Gums should be even in color; too light can indicate a vascular restriction or a fungal overgrowth, and too dark can indicate inflammation and gingivitis.
Gum tissue should also be firm and tight to the teeth, holding them into place and protecting the roots from pathogens and food particles. Loose or receding gums can result in severe tooth sensitivity and an invitation for invaders to move in.
White, red, swollen, receding gums that bleed easily, are an easy way to know there is something more serious going on. There are so many diseases in our bodies that can stem from unhealthy gum tissue.
Bacteria and other pathogens love warm, moist environments. When sugar is consumed there can be a rapid growth in these health-degrading armies. Since our mouths are a great point of entry, these armies are swallowed or absorbed and sent through the body to set up camps all over. If one is already immune-compromised, this will not be tough for the pathogens to accomplish. This can lead to systemic inflammation and overall degradation of our immune systems. Down the line, possibly an autoimmune diagnosis.
Vascular health is also something that can be noticed in gum health. If gums are not the pretty shade of coral they are naturally meant to be, this can indicate a vascular issue. Diabetics and those with high blood pressure often will have reduced or restricted vascular flow. This leads to less oxygen circulation throughout the tissues in our bodies. This will affect nutrient delivery as well as bacterial cleansing.
Respiratory issues can also be attributed to gum health. Bacteria hanging out in unhealthy gums can catch a ride through nasal pathways landing in the lungs. Again, a warm enclosed space such as the lungs are an optimal breeding ground for bacteria. Bacterial lung infections can cause serious issues such as pneumonia and COPD.
Add smoking to any person with poor oral hygiene or gum issues and you have a straightaway for serious issues quickly. Smoking prolongs healing time, damages gum tissue, and pulls carcinogenic smoke in, on, and around gums.
As we all know, nutrition plays a role in the entire body. Gum tissue is no different than any other tissue in the body. It needs to be cared for. Practice good oral hygiene daily (brush, floss, oil pull), keep unnecessary sugars out of the diet, and eat a variety of nutrient-dense organic foods. Unfortunately, extra support can still be necessary for optimal gum health.
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