Are Red Gums Normal?

You look in your mouth. Your teeth seem to be okay. Your gums, however, look a little odd. They are red gums. You try to reason with yourself. You ask yourself the question, “Are red gums normal?” Your answer should be a resounding “NO!!!”

Normal Gums
Normal gums are never red. The norm for healthy gums is coral pink. They are also not swollen, shiny or bleeding. Healthy gums are also not bright or dark in color. Healthy gums also flow smoothly above the teeth. There are no gaps. Healthy gums do not have a receding gum line. Normal gums are not pockets of bacterial growth hiding in mouth recesses and around teeth barely covered with gum tissue.

If you notice red gums, you should know immediately that something is wrong. An alarm should go off in your head. It should tell you that you have the start of a possibly serious oral problem. In all probability, the dental problem is gum disease.

What Is Gum disease?
Gum disease is the result of an individual’s failure to keep the mouth free from too many bad bacteria. As the bacteria multiply, it begins to cause infection. Plaque forms. This conceals continued bacterial growth and toxic excretions.

The secretions of the bacteria work away on the tooth and gums. The bacteria irritate the gums, causing them to become red, swollen and tender. At the same time, as it progresses from stage one (gingivitis) to stage two (periodontitis), other things occur. Pockets form between teeth. These cause the teeth to loosen and the gum line to recede. Eventually, the bacteria destroy the tissue and bones.

As the pockets are forming, tartar also appears. This hard, dark substance takes over from the soft, whitish plaque. Only your dentist can remove tartar. At this point, you are well on your way into the serious consequences of gum disease. The treatment for periodontitis is surgery. A follow-up treatment will also remedy the chances of future instances of red gums and gum disease. This is proper oral hygiene.

Proper Oral Hygiene
You can only get rid of red gums if you know the cause. If early gum disease is the problem, your dentist will strongly suggest you adopt a proper regime of oral hygiene. You can achieve healthy gums if you daily do the following:

• Brush your teeth using quality toothpaste
• Floss daily
• Rinse your mouth using a natural product or salt-water. Alternatively, you can rely on a commercial product. Whatever name or generic brand you select, make sure it does not contain alcohol. Alcohol and other substances can create the perfect environment for bacterial growth
• Pay attention to your teeth. Monitor the condition of your teeth and gums regularly. Check to see if your gums are the right color, whether you have bad breath or if something looks “off”
• Visit your dentist annually for a dental check-up
• See a dental hygienist or dentist twice a year, if possible, for a cleaning. This will help prevent any condition from reaching the point of no return

Conclusion
Red gums are not attractive. Red gums are also unquestionably not normal.  Yet, you can remedy this situation easily. If red gums indicate the early signs of gum disease, you can begin a proper system of oral hygiene. Together with regular dental visits, a proper diet and monitoring of your teeth, you can avoid serious consequences.