San Francisco and Marin CA
Gingivitis is the first step before periodontitis (gum disease) develops. It is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gums that is caused by oral bacteria and tartar buildup. While gingivitis is reversible, periodontitis is not. And if periodontitis is not treated properly, it progresses into more severe stages that can ultimately cause total tooth loss and jawbone loss, making it difficult to restore your smile, even with dentures. Since about half of adults living in the U.S. have gingivitis, we thought it would be helpful to share advice on how to get rid of this common oral health condition. The good news is that it’s much easier than you think!
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis causes the gums to swell, become red in color and bleed easily. You may notice “pink in the sink” when you brush your teeth if you have gingivitis. It’s caused by neglecting your oral health or by not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
Get rid of gingivitis for good with these steps.
Saltwater Rinse
Rinsing with warm salt water has been shown to benefit gum health and reduce inflammation caused by gingivitis. It can also help reduce discomfort and the bacteria responsible for causing gum infections. Additionally, swishing saltwater removes food particles that may be stuck between your teeth, freshening your breath. Make a saltwater solution at home by mixing one-half to three-fourths of a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm (not hot) water. Mix the solution until the salt dissolves. Then, swish the solution in your mouth for up to 30 seconds and spit it out. Repeat two to three times a day, if needed. We’d like to mention that saltwater rinses should be used for short-term relief from gingivitis and not as a preventive treatment because too much salty water on your teeth could erode dental enamel.
Turmeric Gel
Turmeric is a plant associated in the ginger family and has proven health effects of reducing plaque and gingivitis. It can also be used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. You can find turmeric gel in health food stores or order online from a trusted retailer. To use turmeric gel for gingivitis, apply it to your gums and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, rinse with water and spit.
Brush and Floss Daily
One of the best ways to get rid of gingivitis is to up your oral hygiene game by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. The key here, according to our Bay Area dentists at Glen Park Dental, is daily flossing. Flossing is the only way to remove bacteria, plaque buildup, and bacteria from between your teeth. If you don’t floss, you’re at risk of cavities in these interproximal areas, as well as gum infections. Floss is inexpensive and it only takes a couple of minutes to floss. This makes reversing gingivitis quick and easy. But you must remain committed to daily flossing if you don’t want gingivitis to return or progress into something worse, like periodontitis.
See the Dentist Twice a Year
You should also visit the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. A dental cleaning removes tartar buildup, which everyone gets on their teeth. Tartar is a hard substance that forms on your teeth from oral bacteria excretions and plaque that was left behind from brushing. Only a dental cleaning can remove tartar buildup. Dental visits are an easy way to help protect your oral health and reverse gingivitis.
Family Dentists in Marin and the Bay Area of California
Glen Park Dental provides preventive dental care to patients of all ages. We like to see our patients smile with confidence and help them achieve a healthy smile. To learn more about protecting your oral health against gingivitis or schedule an appointment, contact Glen Park Dental by calling (415) 585-1500.
