Four Practical Guidelines for Reducing Your Gingivitis Risk
Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontitis. In general, if gingivitis is not treated and reversed, the condition will escalate significantly, evolving into the more serious and permanent periodontitis. Gum disease will cause bleeding of the gums and inflammation of the tissues, and it can also result in more serious symptoms such as the loss of teeth in later stages. Here are practical tips to help you prevent gingivitis and improve your general oral health.
Brush and Floss Correctly
The most reliable method for eliminating the microbial organisms which contribute to gingivitis is brushing and flossing as recommended by the dentist. In addition, you should choose the right tools and techniques for keeping your oral cavity clean. You should choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, and the brush should touch all the surfaces of the teeth for ideal results. It is also important for you to consider purchasing an electric toothbrush because using an electric toothbrush reduces the amount of work required to clean the teeth. When flossing, you should make sure that all the surfaces of the tooth are properly cleaned.
Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash
You should think about purchasing and using an antimicrobial mouthwash for the health of your mouth. The mouthwash will ensure that the bacteria and plaque which might contribute to the development of gum disease are eliminated. Remember, plaque-causing bacterial organisms are the primary cause of gum infections. If you are concerned about sensitivity due to the use of mouthwash, you should look for a product without alcohol to avoid the burn.
Change Your Diet
You should modify your diet to minimise the risk of gum disease. In simple terms, there are certain foods which can accelerate the development of gum disease. The primary food group of concern is sugars. Sugars provide food for the bacteria in your oral cavity. The consumption of sugar by the microbes contributes to the reproduction of the bacteria and subsequent formation of harmful biofilms on the gums. If the bacteria infiltrate the gum tissues, an infection will develop. You should change your diet to minimise the risk of this.
Consult Your Dentist
You should see your dentist for regular deep cleaning. Professional cleaning is critical for eliminating the bacterial deposits which cannot be eliminated at home using a brush or floss. The dentist will scrape the surfaces of the teeth to eliminate disease-causing plaque and tartar. The expert will also examine the oral cavity for signs of gum disease and provide treatment if the condition is developing.
