Almost half of the adults in the US have some type of gum disease. Fortunately,
gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease, can be reversed by having proper oral hygiene. Furthermore, regular dental check-ups should be scheduled to eliminate plaque and tartar, which are the leading causes of gum disease. There is no overnight solution for healthy gums, but forming good habits will help to maintain oral health in the long run.
Why Does Gingivitis Occur?
To address gingivitis, it is important to recognize the root cause. Plaque, an invisible layer of bacteria, tends to thrive in the mouth as it finds nourishment in the sugar that remains on your teeth and gums. This creates an acidic environment that damages both the enamel and the gums. It is important to take action to clean away plaque and tartar quickly to reverse gingivitis before it progresses to a more severe form of gum disease. If the condition is not treated in time, only some of the symptoms can be managed.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day and Floss Daily
Gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for a minimum of two minutes each time to effectively clean all the surfaces of your teeth. Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so be sure to be gentle. For best results, brush your teeth twice a day and make sure to brush before you go to sleep to prevent plaque buildup. Dental plaque tends to hide in hard-to-reach spaces between teeth and can cause cavities and gum irritation if not removed. To avoid this, it is also important to floss each tooth daily to remove plaque and reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Stay Away from Sugar and Rinse Your Mouth with Fluoride
If you're looking to reduce your risk of gingivitis, it's essential to avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar. This means steering clear of soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, popsicles, dried fruits, and caramel. When you consume sugary items, your teeth may become coated in plaque and tartar, giving them a fuzzy feeling. For this reason, we highly recommend limiting your sugar intake. Having clean teeth and good oral hygiene are essential to prevent cavities and gingivitis. To keep a healthy mouth, regularly use a fluoride-containing mouth rinse that is labeled as antibacterial, antiseptic, or antigingivitis, as this will help protect your teeth and make them more resistant to acid attacks caused by plaque. Establishing this habit at an early age is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums for life.
Make Sure You Don't Miss Your Dental Appointment
At our dental office, we can provide a thorough
teeth cleaning and examination, which includes the use of a scaler tool to eliminate plaque and tartar. Additionally, X-rays may be taken to view any internal issues. It is advised to have this type of appointment every six months to maintain optimal oral health.
Our staff is here to help you obtain the best possible oral health and wellness. When caught early, gum disease can be reversed. When your gums become swollen, sore, or bleeding, you should call our office immediately. To request an appointment with our Ooltewah dentist office, call us at (423) 238-8887 or send us a message
here.
