Gingivitis, and its progression to periodontitis, starts with the plaque that forms mostly at the base of the visible part of the teeth. This plaque is caused by food debris and bacteria that grow on it. Tooth brushing removes plaque and thereby constitutes a preventive measure against gingivitis. However, some plaque is likely to remain in spite of brushing one’s teeth. This plaque hardens and then is called calculus.

Because of its hardness, calculus will often result in a mechanical irritation of the gums. Additionally, calculus provides an area on which more bacteria easily grow. Like coral reefs, plaque and calculus will, if not removed, continue to grow and form deep pockets at the base of the teeth that will sooner or later fill with pus.

In cases of light gingivitis, the gums may heal all by themselves after pockets of calculus are removed. In more advanced cases of gingivitis, or in cases of periodontal disease (periodontitis), or in cases where gingivitis is accompanied by some systemic illness, a dentist will likely prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic to support the body in getting rid of the pathogens that caused the gum infection.

Left untreated, gingivitis will, if a patient lives long enough, develop into periodontitis, which will lead to teeth falling out, as well as possible systemic complications. Gingivitis also makes dental caries much more likely, which also leads to the loss of teeth.

While plaque can be avoided to some extend by brushing teeth, calculus can only be removed with sharper objects. Obviously, in order not to carry more pathogens into the open wounds, these tools must be professionally sterilized. This requirement, and the danger of accidental deep wounds, is the main reason why there are no public health campaigns to make use of such tools oneself.

The keys to success in the battle against gum disease and most oral problems are hidden in nature. Fighting the bacteria that causes the problem is the first place to start and specific species of peppermint and spearmint oils are scientifically proven to be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-microbial. Get your mouth in mint condition today!