Gingivitis is a common disease that hits your gums and can be a real pain in the mouth. The issue arises due to plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, leading to inflammation and, eventually, gum bleeding. However, there is no need to worry about it, you can reverse gingivitis with simple steps, and we will tell you how to.
Let’s discuss the causes of gingivitis first and then look at 5 easy ways to reverse it.
Causes of Gingivitis
Before we dive right into how to reverse gingivitis, it is important to note what causes it.
Gingivitis is primarily a consequence of plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a well-known sticky film of bacteria that spreads on your teeth resulting in tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
When regular plaque removal is not done via brushing and flossing, it further hardens into tartar- calculus—something which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Secondary causes of gingivitis include poor oral hygiene regime, hormonal changes, smoking, medications, and a poor diet.
5 Ways to Reverse Gingivitis
- Brush and Floss Regularly
We will start with the easiest way to reverse gingivitis: to practice good oral hygiene.
Your practice should not be taxing as it must include brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once.
Brushing gets rid of plaque, and food particles from your teeth surface, while flossing removes debris between your teeth and under your gum line.
Additionally, when choosing the toothpaste for brushing, be sure to select fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to pair it with. Start brushing in a circular motion, making sure to reach all surfaces of your teeth. However, when flossing, be gentle. - Add Mouthwash
You can couple brushing and flossing with mouthwash to reverse gingivitis with ease. Mouthwash kills bacteria that cause gum disease; other than that, it freshens your breath and promotes healthy gums.
Be vigilant while selecting your mouthwash. Go for an alcohol-free and fluoride-infused variant. Alcohol dries out your mouth and causes irritation. - Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major contributor to gingivitis and other gum diseases, along with bad breath, tooth discoloration, and even tooth loss. Smoking cessation helps improve your overall oral health, including remedial gingivitis. - Eat a Healthy Diet
Your diet can also play a role in treating gum infections. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables promotes healthy gums and prevents gum disease. Moreover, steer clear of sugary and starchy foods since they can increase plaque buildup and lead to tooth decay.
In addition to that, incorporate plenty of water into your daily routine. Water washes away food particles and bacteria that can cause gum disease. - Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Finally, visiting your dentist every quarter is crucial for reversing gingivitis. Your dentist can easily remove plaque and tartar buildup that you miss during regular brushing and flossing. They also check for signs of gum disease and provide treatment in the early stages.
Scaling and Root Planing
Your dentist may recommend a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. It is a dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. To top it all, your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help reverse gingivitis.
Final Note
You can always contact the dental experts from Lone Star Dental to learn more about professional teeth cleaning and periodontal treatments for gingivitis. Dial (281) 233-0333 to connect with us.