How to Get Rid Of Red Gums

You should never ignore the presence of red gums in mouth and around teeth recesses. If you see red gums, it usually means you have gum disease. Gum disease is a dental health problem affecting at least 75% of all adult Americans over 35. Yet, you need to be sure it is gum disease and not some other health issue. Examine your teeth for other possible signs and arrange a visit with your dentist to have the diagnosis confirmed.

Symptoms of Gum Disease
Red gums are one sign or symptom of gum disease. Other indications include:

• Swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Bright gums
• Loose teeth
• Plaque on your teeth
• A receding gum line

While these are clear indications of gum disease, your dentist will need to determine if this is the case. He or she will ask you questions on your diet, life style and overall physical condition. After thoroughly examining your teeth, s/he must determine the bacteria type present in your mouth.

The reason your dentist will check this information out is because red gums may also result from other diseases and health issues. These include:

• Vitamin C deficiency – This results in Scurvy
• Pregnancy – hormone changes may result in dark red gums as does gestational diabetes
• Infections of the throat e.g. thrush
• Improper brushing techniques

How to Get Rid Of Red Gums
Treatment for red gums depends upon the cause. If you brush harshly, you will need to use a softer bristled toothbrush. If it is pregnancy or another medical issue, you will need to talk to a medical provider. If, however, it is gum disease, you and your dentist will arrange for treatment.

The remedy for red gums is based upon the extent of the gum disease. The remedy for gingivitis – the early stage, differs from treatment for periodontitis, the later stage. If you have red gums associated with periodontitis, you cannot get rid of the problem easily. It requires surgery.

Depending upon the severity of the gum disease, your dentist may

• Scale and root plan – remove the plaque and/or tartar
• Pocket reduction – the bacterial pockets created around teeth and in mouth or gum recesses are reduced
• Soft tissue (gum) grafting – The use of healthy gum tissue to replace damaged gum tissue

Yet, no matter what the procedure, your dentist is sure to insist you implement follow-up procedures. He or she will tell you that you must take care of your teeth regularly. This involves a daily practice of proper oral hygiene.

The Oral Hygiene Treatment
Proper oral hygiene is a means of preventing the bacteria from growing in your mouth. It is not a cure but a pre-emptive and preventive measure. With soft bristled toothbrush in-hand, you apply toothpaste and brush after meals, after snacks and before bed. You select suitable toothpaste for the job. This can be a commercial name-brand product or a less expensive generic product. You may prefer to use baking soda or some other home remedy.

Rinsing your mouth with a non-alcoholic mouthwash is another part of proper oral hygiene. Be sure to pick a product without alcohol. Alcohol will contribute to the increased production of bacteria.

Flossing is the third critical portion of a solid oral hygiene practice. You need to floss your mouth daily. Try to floss before brushing and before bed. Make sure the width of the floss thread is not too wide. Never force it into the narrow spaces between your teeth. This can cause red gums and bleeding.

Last, but not least is this. Be sure to visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning. Visit annually for a check-up.

Conclusion
If you wish to get rid of red gums, you need to know the causes. Talk to a medical professional and a dentist. If the cause is gum disease, your dentist will arrange the right treatment. You must then follow it up with a proper system of oral hygiene.