What Is Gingivitis And How Do You Prevent It?

There are many oral diseases that we hear about in the media. However, we rarely pay attention to any of them until we’re diagnosed with one of them. Gingivitis is a clear example of this situation. We often hear about gingivitis on television commercials and when doctors talk about oral health, but do you really know what it is and how to prevent it?

Dentists always say, “brushing is the key to preventing oral diseases”. The key for effective brushing is cleaning the two arches separately at a 45-degree angle with short circular motions for 2 to 3 minutes at a time.  But when brushing is not performed correctly, plaque is not removed and the result is bacteria which starts to multiply and produce toxins. Toxins are responsible for a bleeding infection in the gums and that’s how gingivitis is produced.

These are the most common symptoms of gingivitis:

  • Swollen gums
  • Accumulation of puss
  • Bleeding gums (especially when brushing)
  • Red gums
  • Oral Ulcers
  • Bad breath

There’s no better way to prevent gingivitis than brushing your teeth thoroughly. That includes brushing your tongue and cheeks too since bacteria can also accumulate there. It’s also important that you floss and use mouthwash after brushing.

If you think you might have gingivitis, it is important to know that it’s not difficult to treat and reverse. However, the first step is to see your dentist and make sure you get started in the right direction. That means removing the plaque that’s currently built up on your teeth and adopting and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing regimen.

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