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When there isn’t a healthy balance of bacteria in different areas of the body, you can experience infections and other health conditions. The mouth is no different. There are more than 700 species of microbes that live in your mouth. When they are in balance, the “good” bacteria can keep the “bad” bacteria at bay. However, when this is out of balance, you can develop gum disease. Continue reading to learn more about how this works and how probiotics can play a role.
How Does Bacterial Imbalance Occur in the Mouth?
There are various different things that can trigger the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: If you aren’t regularly brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth, the bad bacteria continue multiply on the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Weak Immune System: If your immune system is weaker due to a medical condition or another issue, the bad bacteria in the mouth has an advantage.
- Genetic Factors: Everyone is different, so some people don’t have as many helpful bacteria to balance out the harmful kind.
- Dry Mouth: Your saliva helps to fight harmful bacteria. If you don’t have enough due to medications or dehydration, the harmful bacteria will continue to multiply.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Healthy gums are firm and can range from light pink to dark pink and brown depending on your genetics. Gere are some signs that could indicate that you have gum disease:
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Bright red, dark red, or dark purple gums
- Gums that feel tender when touched
- Gums that easily bleed
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Tooth loss
- Painful chewing
- Gingival pockets
- Changes in your bite
How Can Probiotics Benefit Your Gums?
There is a type of helpful bacteria, called lactobacilli that can fight different bad bacteria, helping to restore balance in your mouth. According to the Mayo Clinic, a study was completed where people with gum disease had to chew gum that contained these helpful bacteria. After a couple of weeks, they had less plaque in their mouth.
If you have concerns about gum disease. Talk to your dentist about your treatment options and whether you could benefit from taking a probiotic. By taking the initiative against gum disease, you can work to restore your smile to health!
About the Practice
At Collins St Dental of Arlington, Dr. Prashantkumar Gajera and Dr. Shitalben Patel work together to treat patients in the Arlington area. If you have concerns regarding your gum health, they would be happy to help. To learn more about gum disease or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (817) 524-6654.