Am I Doing Everything I Can to Prevent Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a very common dental problem, affecting about 90% of all adults at some point in their lifetime. And, if often affects children and teens, too. But, gingivitis can be prevented. Are you doing everything you can to prevent gingivitis?

Gingivitis is caused by rampant bacteria in the mouth. While bacteria in the mouth are normal, they must be removed regularly in order to prevent the formation of plaque on the teeth. It is this plaque that causes gingivitis.

Symptoms of gingivitis include bad breath and gums that are sore and may bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontal illness, causing loss of gum tissue and sometimes even teeth. In its most severe cases, periodontal disease can even lead to heart disease.

Preventing gingivitis requires several steps. The first is a regular schedule of visits to the dentist. Your twice yearly professional cleanings will remove the plaque that you missed, which has now hardened on your teeth. Dental cleanings are critical because they remove plaque that you cannot remove at home.

But, your at home routine is just as important as your dental cleanings. Your home routine will remove the bacteria that causes plaque to form, and will remove plaque that has formed but not yet hardened.

A good daily oral hygiene routine consists of brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once, and the use of mouthwash. Brushing removes plaque from the teeth, and flossing removes plaque and food particles between the teeth. Mouthwash should have an anti-bacterial agent in it, so that it can remove the bacteria from all surfaces of the mouth. Mouthwash is particularly important because it can get down below the gum line where you can’t reach with your brush or floss. Scraping the tongue, either with a special scraping device or with your toothbrush can also help remove bacteria from this area.

To avoid all the additives and detergents in commercial oral care products, try looking for all natural oral hygiene products that contain oil of mint. Mint oil is one of the most powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agents around, and it has no additives or side effects. It also makes your mouth taste, smell and feel fresh and clean.

Preventing gingivitis requires the right products, professional assistance and some diligence. But, with these three elements combined, you’ll know you’re doing everything you can to prevent gingivitis.