How familiar are you with the signs of gingivitis? Many people are currently in the beginning stages of gum disease and aren’t even aware they’re at risk. Learning to identify gingivitis and how it forms can help develop healthier habits, preventing many complications to your health in the process.
Gingivitis is considered the initial stage of more serious gum disease. The common symptoms of gingivitis include swollen and inflamed gums, redness, and receding gums with a puffy appearance surrounding the gum line.
While early gingivitis includes slightly unremarkable symptoms like bad breath, if it develops into gum disease the consequences are more severe. Gum disease is known to increase the risk for major health complications such as heart disease and diabetes.
Gingivitis develops after plaque accumulates in the mouth. Gums are naturally irritated by plaque, which is why it’s important for us to brush and floss every day. Plaque regularly left untreated greatly increases the risk of being diagnosed with gingivitis.
Have you been diagnosed with gingivitis? Don’t panic – consider this your wake up call. The condition is actually very common and easily treated with the proper oral care. These are the steps you should take to reverse the course of the disease:
- Brush Twice Daily – Plaque is constantly developing in our mouths. You should brush your teeth every morning and night. Brushing your teeth excessively may actually cause more damage.
- Floss Every Day – It may sound like a broken record, but flossing is critical to curbing the effects of gingivitis. Address all the hard places to reach when brushing.
- Improve Your Diet – Many people don’t realize how important diet is to their oral health. Sugary snacks and beverages can create plaque buildup, damaging your teeth. Opt for healthier alternatives and you’ll notice a big difference.
- Avoid Smoking – Cigarettes expedite the development of gingivitis and gum disease. Try to cut down or quit altogether if you’re serious about your overall health.
- Regularly Visit Your Dentist – Although the fight against gingivitis begins at home, your dentist has the tools to keep your oral health in check. Only your dentist can remove the plaque that develops into tartar.
Do you think you might be at risk for gingivitis and gum disease? Schedule an appointment with us today!