Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that occurs as a result of plaque buildup and is the first stage of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into the next, more severe stage of gum disease called periodontists. Unfortunately, there are a lot of contradictory views and information regarding gingivitis online. A good amount of online knowledge is incorrect as it comes from outdated dental information or from individuals who make assumptions about what must be done. One example of such information is that sterilization of the mouth can heal and/or prevent gingivitis. In order to correctly inform people about this oral disease, here are five helpful things on what you should know about gingivitis and what gingivitis treatment consists of.
Causes Of Gingivitis
As plaque, a sticky substance that contains bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and gums, the bacteria produce toxins that can irritate the infected areas of the gum which can cause them to become inflamed, puffy, and red. However, this is only one of many factors that can contribute to the possibility of obtaining gingivitis. One of the biggest constituents associated with the development of gum disease is smoking and/or any other use of tobacco. As research has attested that smokers are much more likely to suffer from gingivitis and other forms of gum disease than individuals who do not smoke, it has also demonstrated that smoking can lower the chances of successful treatment. Poor oral hygiene is one agent that contributes to the development of gum disease, even though it is the most avoidable. Refraining from brushing your teeth or flossing regularly can result in a buildup of plaque along the gum line. Other contributors that support the progression of gingivitis and other forms of gum disease is poor nutrition, hormonal changes, and chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
Due to the fact that gingivitis often causes no pain, a majority of people may not be aware that they have it. That is why is it crucial to know what signs and symptoms to look for as well as see a dentist and hygienist regularly. By going to these professionals for routine cleanings and checkups, they will be able to inform you of the overall health of your teeth and gums. Some gingivitis symptoms to look for are red, puffy gums, gums that bleed when you brush or floss, and sore gums that will not go away. As well, tooth pain or sensitivity is a common sign because as the gums pull away from the teeth, the teeth are more sensitive to hot and colds foods. Bad breath that is persistent has also been known to be a sign of gingivitis due to the fact that plaque contains an abundance of bacteria that produce foul-smelling wastes that linger on your teeth. Loose teeth or modifications to the way your teeth fit as you bite down can be a warning of a more advanced gum disease known as periodontitis.
How To Prevent Gingivitis
No person wants to deal with the hassle of undergoing gingivitis treatment, which is why it is important to keep up with your oral health. If you wish to prevent gum disease, there are a few ways to avoid it. One way is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. It is best to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles as to not irritate your gums and even using an electric toothbrush as they are better equipped to remove plaque. When flossing, make certain that the piece of floss is wrapped around both sides of each tooth and to use a push/pull motion as to remove plaque. In addition to brushing your teeth, use mouthwash daily as it is another way to kill any harmful bacteria in your mouth. It would also be beneficial to adjust your diet as to add more calcium since it has positive effects on your gums.
Remedies For Gingivitis
If you are not already doing any of the prevention steps previously mentioned, then you must begin with those in order to truly start the treatment of your gingivitis. Taking probiotics is a good way to boost the beneficial bacteria in your mouth so that they can fight against the harmful ones. Not only will it boost the health of your immune system and of your mouth, but it can also help with fighting bad breath. Sea salt water rinses are great for the inflamed gums associated with the disease. It helps to remove any food buildup, ease inflammation/pain, and reduce harmful bacteria. There are also antibacterial products that are natural that make it useful in fighting gingivitis. Turmeric gel is one example of a product that has been found to sufficient in combating inflammation. However, the best method for boosting your immune system and defending your body against gingivitis is by improving your diet. Eating more berries and dark leafy greens promotes antioxidants meant to fight inflammation while eating more unsweetened greek yogurt and kimchi increases probiotics. While having a poor diet is not the sole reason for gingivitis occurring, it is the main for the pH balance in your mouth can become thrown off. It is also crucial to address poor dental hygiene by putting into effect the gingivitis prevention tips and visiting a family dentist who may be able to tell you more about how to treat it.
If for whatever reason you believe you may be experiencing signs and symptoms of gingivitis, it would beneficial for you to visit a dentist who has a vast expanse of knowledge on gingivitis treatment. This professional will be able to inform you whether or not you truly do have the condition and what your exact plan for fighting it should be. Even if you do not have it, the dentist will be able to educate you on how to more thoroughly check for signs of poor oral health and hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can turn into other serious health problems so being on top of it is crucial.
Tag : Family dentist, Gingivitis treatment
