Gingivitis is medically classified as an inflammation of the gums, but it can lead to more serious gum conditions and should be treated promptly and effectively at the first sign in order to prevent any further complications. That’s because gingivitis is an entry level form of periodontal disease, which attacks the gum tissue and eventually works its way to the jaw bone and causes permanent damage including loss of teeth. Get Expert Advice Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial buildup, but it is not the bacteria directly that cause the problem. Regardless of what you do, bacteria are constantly forming in your mouth. It is an unavoidable truth – your mouth will ALWAYS have bacteria in it. However, when you do not take the proper measures to take care of your mouth, an excess of bad bacteria accumulate in your mouth. This leads to plaque buildup. Plaque is the accumulation of tiny food particles, particularly sugars, and the excess bad bacteria in the mouth. The particles act as food for the bacteria, and this is what creates the white, sticky substance you know as plaque. Plaque is the major cause of tooth decay. If left unattended, the plaque will eventually harden, and transform into what’s known as tartar. Both plaque and tartar are known to inflame the gums, causing gingivitis. While it sounds like a long, drawn out, difficult process to manage, the truth is it’s not. Preventing plaque and tartar buildup is very easy to do, and if you can successfully control the goings on in your mouth, you can eliminate the chances of gingivitis and other forms of advanced gum disease from occurring.
There are gingivitis stages, but what do we know about these things? The early stage of gum disease is Gingivitis, this is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. You may notice some bleeding during brushing and flossing. At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected. Periodontitis is the next stage, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque. Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage. The last stage would be Advanced Periodontitis. This stage destroys the fibers and bone that supports your teeth that will surely make your teeth shift or become loose. This can affect the way you bite or chew and in this stage your teeth may need removal. There are some ways of gingivitis treatment like brushing twice a day for a minimum of 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste that contains an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush held at a 45° angle to the line where your teeth and gums meet. Move the brush in small circular movements along the gum line and chewing surfaces of your teeth. A power toothbrush may make brushing easier and more efficient. Another way on how to get rid of gingivitis is by flossing daily. Hold the floss tight. Gently bring it down between the teeth. Do not pop the floss against the gum. Curve the floss around the tooth and gently rub up and down. Adjust the floss so you use a fresh section for each tooth, including the back side of the last teeth. Alternate flossing methods are available for patients who have difficulty flossing or who cannot floss. Rinse with an antiplaque, anti-gingivitis mouthwash. Visit your dentist or dental hygienist every 3 to 6 months, depending upon the severity of the gingivitis. Your dental professional will be able to help you manage gingivitis by reviewing your risk factors and oral hygiene habits in order to create a home-care regimen that works for you. They can get to areas in your mouth that you are not able to properly access at home even with good home care.
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