Gum Disease

How to Fight Gingivitis and Gum Disease With Good Oral Hygiene

Gum disease can result in severe problems, including tooth and bone loss, as well as the need for a gum graft. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and it usually causes inflammation in the soft tissues, which may appear red or swollen. Gingivitis is relatively easy to prevent through good oral hygiene practices. However, once it passes this stage, significant periodontal work may be required, which is why it is so important to understand how to practice good oral hygiene. 

Ways to fight gum disease and gingivitis with good oral hygiene

Outlined below are a few oral hygiene tips that can fight off gum disease and gingivitis.

Brush at least twice a day

One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is by brushing the teeth at least twice a day, if not after every meal. When tooth brushing takes place, it is also important to brush along the gum lines, where the teeth meet the gums. The gum lines are the breeding grounds for bacterial growth, which is typically the result of left behind food. 

Dentists recommend that patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste containing low levels of fluoride. Combined together, this can remove food particles, which turn into plaque or bacteria. Once plaque and bacteria are removed from the gum lines, there is less of a risk of gum disease or gingivitis developing. 

Floss daily

Another important oral hygiene practice is to floss daily. Flossing should be done at least once a day, if not twice. Dentists recommend gently flossing in between each tooth to ensure that food is not left behind. When food does get stuck or left in between teeth, it can affect the gums. Long-term, these food particles may turn into bacteria, which causes plaque and tartar to form. Plaque and tartar are responsible for the development of gum disease and gingivitis. 

Rinse with mouthwash or saltwater

A lot of people skip using mouthwash or rinsing with salt water; however, it is extremely helpful when it comes to preventing gum disease from developing. Rinsing can help clear out hard-to-reach areas in the mouth that may not be accessible through the use of floss or a toothbrush. Saltwater helps to cleanse the mouth of bacteria, while mouthwashes can kill any present bacteria. Additionally, these can both be used to dislodge left behind food particles that may be stuck. Dislodging is important so that the gumlines do not become affected, which could result in gum disease. 

Saltwater can be used every day, multiple times a day, while mouthwash is typically recommended only a few times a week. Most mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can actually be irritating to the mouth if used too frequently. 

Learn more today!

It can be difficult to fight off gum disease and gingivitis; however, through good oral hygiene, patients of all ages can maintain healthy gums. Additionally, working with a dentist to better understand gum disease prevention is a good place to start. Reach out today to learn more or to ask questions!

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

What To Do When You Experience A Broken Tooth

A broken tooth can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience, requiring prompt attention to prevent further damage or complications. Whether caused by an accident, biting into something hard, or untreated decay, addressing a broken tooth quickly is crucial to maintaining oral health. Understanding the steps to take after experiencing a broken tooth can help preserve…

Finding The Replacement Option For Your Missing Tooth

Though a seemingly small problem to some, just a single missing tooth disrupts the alignment of your smile and can lead to bone loss and difficulties with chewing. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective single-tooth replacement options. Knowing these options and the type of tooth replacement that suits you can help you make an informed…

Longevity And Care Of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are a commonly used option for fixing a variety of problems with the teeth. Your dentist may give you the choice between composite fillings and various other materials to use for your teeth. Each option comes with slightly different parameters for how long the filling will last and what you will need to…

How Natural Do Tooth Colored Fillings Look?

Each year, increasing numbers of dentists offer advanced tooth colored fillings in place of older metallic options. Still, many patients worry and wonder whether these matching fillings truly look more natural than other filling types. The answer is yes, provided they are initially done correctly and properly taken care of afterward.To see how less noticeable…

Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Share
Published by
Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Recent Posts

What to Do When You Experience a Broken Tooth

A broken tooth can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience, requiring prompt attention to prevent…

1 day ago

Finding the Replacement Option for Your Missing Tooth

Partial dentures are relatively quick to fabricate and are one of the most affordable solutions.

4 days ago

Longevity and Care of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are a commonly used option for fixing a variety of problems with the…

5 days ago

How Natural Do Tooth Colored Fillings Look?

Each year, increasing numbers of dentists offer advanced tooth colored fillings in place of older…

1 week ago

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

If you have experienced a cavity at least once, you almost certainly have had a…

2 weeks ago

5 Benefits of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are resin materials made with a plastic and glass mixture. Dentists began to…

2 weeks ago