Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. While it's not usually painful, it can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. That's why it's important to understand what gingivitis is, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from coming back.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth. Plaque contains bacteria that can irritate your gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
The most common symptoms of gingivitis are:
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss
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Bad breath
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Receding gums
Treating Gingivitis
The good news is that gingivitis is usually treatable with good oral hygiene and professional dental care. Here are some of the things you can do to treat gingivitis:
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Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.
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See your periodontist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your periodontist can remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, and check for any signs of gingivitis or other dental problems.
Preventing Gingivitis
The best way to prevent gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your periodontist for regular checkups and cleanings. You can also help prevent gingivitis by:
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Eating a healthy diet. Choose foods that are low in sugar and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Quitting smoking. Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off infection.
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Managing stress. Stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infection.
Conclusion
Gingivitis is a common problem, but it's also preventable and treatable. By following the tips above, you can keep your gums healthy and prevent gingivitis from coming back.
If you have any questions about gingivitis, please talk to your periodontist. They can provide you with more information and help you develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 \ (210) 614-4700 \ aestheticperiodontist.com \ 12/30/2024 \ Key Phrases: Dental Implants San Antonio TX \
Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. While it's not usually painful, it can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. That's why it's important to understand what gingivitis is,