Edmund Khoo

1 month ago | health.com | Mark Gurarie |Edmund Khoo

Nico De Pasquale Photography / Getty Images Healthy gums support teeth and protect them from bacteria. Unhealthy gums develop from poor oral hygiene and lifestyle habits, causing bacteria and plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky coat on the teeth, and when it builds up, it can harden to form tartar, damaging teeth and causing infections, leading to gum or periodontal diseases. Gingivitis causes swelling and bleeding as the gums pull away from the teeth.

1 month ago | health.com | Mark Gurarie |Edmund Khoo

Alina Rudya/Bell Collective / Getty Images Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you can do to protect your dental health. It helps to remove bacteria that form a thin film called plaque on the teeth. If you don't clean away plaque, it can cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease (periodontitis). To prevent plaque buildup, experts recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily: Once right before bed and once after waking up.

1 month ago | health.com | Sarah Jividen |Edmund Khoo

brizmaker / Getty Images Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside your mouth. They commonly appear after stress, minor mouth injuries, or hormonal changes, as well as with certain vitamin deficiencies. These sores usually resolve on their own. If you're looking for ways to ease canker sore pain and speed up the healing process, there are strategies you can use at home. 1.

1 month ago | health.com | Mark Gurarie |Edmund Khoo

SeventyFour / Getty Images Gum graft surgery treats gum recession, which occurs when the gums recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. Also known as gingival resection or gingival graft, this surgery involves removing gum tissue from one part of the mouth and transferring it to the affected area. Periodontists (gum specialists) perform gum graft surgery and play an important role in protecting your teeth.

2 months ago | health.com | Cristina Mutchler |Edmund Khoo

Andrii Iemelyanenko / Getty Images Gingivitis and periodontitis are forms of gum disease. Gingivitis is the mildest type of gum disease, causing gum inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into irreversible periodontitis, which involves bone loss around the teeth. In the United States, about 42% of adults 30 and older have periodontitis.