Many people today are highly concerned about the color of their teeth but think very little about the color of their gums. There is a perceived connection between white teeth and good health. However, the color of gum tissue is a much more reliable indicator of potential health concerns.
Many studies in medicine have shown a strong correlation between unhealthy gums and systemic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, certain types of cancer, and even dementia.
What makes gums unhealthy? There are a variety of bacteria that live in the mouth. In small numbers these bacteria are not a problem. But when they are allowed an opportunity to proliferate, they cause a chronic infection in the connection between the teeth, gums, and bone. The mild form of this infection is called gingivitis. The severe form is called periodontal disease.
What should healthy gums look like? Healthy gum tissue can vary in color, but there is one rule of thumb: healthy gum tissue is not red and puffy where the gums meet the teeth. Red, puffy, tender gum tissue that bleeds when brushing or flossing has inflammation. The severity and length of time this inflammation has been present in the mouth is where the correlation between the color of a person’s gums and chronic systemic disease truly lies.
So, the next time you are looking in the mirror thinking about the color of your teeth, take a moment to check out the color of your gums — they can reveal far more about your overall health than most people realize.
Your 10-Second Gum Health Checklist
☐ Color - Gums should range from pink to deeper coral tones — not bright red.
☐ Texture - Healthy gums lie flat and firm against the teeth, not swollen or puffy.
☐ Bleeding - Brushing or flossing shouldn’t draw blood. If it does, there’s inflammation.
☐ Tenderness - Soreness when eating, brushing, or touching the gumline can indicate early infection.
☐ Consistency Over Time - Symptoms that persist week after week often point to chronic issues that should be evaluated.
To stay proactive about gum health, visit Marr Family Dentistry for a professional assessment at 1813 61st Ave, STE 100. Call to schedule at 970-356-2605.