Gingivitis is a common oral hygiene problem. You may have heard of it, and you may have even experienced it before. Gingivitis, also known as inflammation of the gums, is an early stage of gum disease. It is often characterized by painful gums that swell and bleed after brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can also result in bad breath, swollen glands, and bacterial infections. The most common form of gingivitis results from a plaque build-up in the gaps between teeth. Gingivitis is easily preventable and if detected in its early stages, it is easily treatable as well. However, if left undiagnosed, gingivitis can cause serious damage, including tooth loss.
Gingivitis Causes and Prevention
Gingivitis is caused by poor oral hygiene. The effects of gingivitis can be avoided or reversed simply by brushing and flossing regularly. Smoking increases the level of plaque build-up that leads to gingivitis, so avoiding tobacco is another way to prevent it.
When it comes to flossing, you need to apply the right techniques. Ineffective flossing will yield poor oral care results that can make your gingivitis worse. If you’re having a hard time flossing manually, then you can purchase water flossers. These products rely on water pressure to remove bacteria and plaque.
What to Do If You Have Gingivitis
If you suspect that you have gingivitis, the most effective way to deal with it is to start a consistent oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing at least twice daily. Gingivitis requires professional teeth cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist to get rid of the layers of plaque that have hardened and are difficult to remove. A dentist or dental hygienist can also help you find an oral hygiene plan that works for you.
Don’t expect that the problem will just go away on its own—ignoring gingivitis will only make it more difficult to treat and increase the risk of it developing into something more serious. If you are experiencing any symptoms of gingivitis, book an appointment with KW Dental Emergency and our professional staff will help you take care of any inflammation safely and effectively.