Irritation, soreness, or swollen gums? We’ve all been there! But what are you doing to prevent this painful situation from arising again? 

Let’s face it. We have so much to worry about in our life that we forget about taking proper care of our oral health. Letting your worries come in the way of maintaining good oral hygiene can have some pretty bad effects on your teeth. Your ignorance can give rise to this mild, early form of the disease known as Gingivitis. 

Gingivitis is an onset of gum disease and treating it is necessary. Otherwise, it can turn into periodontitis, which is a serious infection. The good news is that you can treat it by maintaining good oral hygiene and paying regular visits to a good dentist. Before diving into details, let’s understand why this happens and how to prevent it. 

What causes gingivitis?

It occurs when plaque and bacteria find enough energy from the food you consume – sugar and starch, to be precise. These diets interact with the germs in your mouth, which is why it is better to avoid them as much as possible. With time, these bacteria penetrate the tissues at the base of the teeth and infect them, making them red and swollen.

If you don’t clean your teeth regularly, the bacteria can infect the gingiva, which is the tissue that surrounds the base of your teeth. Leaving it uncleaned for a few days will turn plaque into Tartar (a hard substance that contributes to tooth decay). Tartar cannot be entirely removed by brushing or flossing. You will need some professional help.

Symptoms of gingivitis:

  • Swollen or puffy gums 
  • Bad taste in the mouth
  • Bleeding of gums while brushing or flossing
  • New gaps between your teeth 
  • The Build-up of tartar along the gumline   
  • Gums that are delicate or tender   
  • When chewing, there is a lot of pain

Effective methods to prevent gingivitis are:

To avoid surgery and the possibility of tooth loss, prevention is essential.

  • Professional cleanings and regular checkups every six months give an extra shield to your teeth.
  • Brush your teeth twice a day, recommended after each meal or snack.
  • Use a soft bristle brush and don’t forget to change it every 90 days.
  • Floss every day.
  • Avoid brushing too hard.

Minimally invasive surgery is also a solution to this problem. The process involves removing tartar from deep areas behind the gums. However, prevention is better than cure! Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home can save you from experiencing this painful solution. For regular checkup and cleaning or any other dental procedures, Dr. Salim Kapadia Dental Centre is your best choice in Scarborough. Call 416-321-3268 or click here to book an appointment online.

Published On: 30 December 2021Categories: Hygiene, Periodontal

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