Gingivitis, commonly called gum disease, is often caused by bacteria and can lead to pain and other chronic health issues. Gingivitis is widespread and one of the many things that anyone practicing good dental hygiene is hoping to avoid. You may prevent gum disease from progressing in your mouth by following preventative measures such as flossing at least once a day and visiting the dentist regularly. The onset of gum disease is often gradual and painless, making it easy to ignore. However, the disease can be treated with a healthy diet and active dental care. This article will look at several different facets of gingivitis. Hopefully it can help to prevent gum disease so you can maintain healthy teeth for a lifetime.
Bacteria cause gingivitis because of not flossing your teeth. These bacteria can cause problems for your gums, leading to larger pockets of bacteria, inflammation and bleeding. The inflammation can lead to pain and bleeding. The bacteria thrive in the moist environment near your teeth, which is why keeping your mouth clean is critical. The bacteria can also spread to your gums and cause them to swell. If you have gingivitis, you must relieve the inflammation and prevent further progression with a dentist. Some people, like those with varicose veins or rheumatoid arthritis, are prone to developing gingivitis when they are ill or during the winter. Gum disease can also be caused by a vitamin deficiency or reaction to a medication, so it's essential to consult your healthcare provider if you think your gingivitis may be caused by something else rather than poor dental hygiene.
Ways to prevent gum disease vary depending on your lifestyle and medical status. If you have diabetes, hypertension, or an existing autoimmune disorder, it is best to visit the dentist more frequently for checkups and cleanings. If you have any current oral health problems that may worsen with time, such as receding gums or teeth with fillings close to the gums, you should also schedule more frequent dental appointments. Flossing regularly and brushing your teeth twice a day are crucial. You should also avoid eating acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, as they can erode your enamel and make it even more challenging to keep your teeth healthy. Another way to prevent gum disease is to only drink alcohol moderately and avoid smoking.
Typically, you will notice the redness after cleaning or flossing your teeth. Your tongue may also become rough and irritated. You may also see bleeding in your gums if you have a pocket of bacteria in your mouth. Your teeth can become very sensitive to hot and cold, so they tend to hurt when brushed with a toothbrush that is too hard. As the disease progresses, you may notice that your gums don't appear connected to your teeth anymore. They will sometimes begin to fall back away from the teeth and form pockets. If you have recurring issues with gum disease, they may lead to bone loss around them. This bone loss can cause you to lose your teeth over time if it is not treated on time.
Some signs that you may have gum disease are swollen and bleeding gums and red skin around your teeth. The redness will not disappear even when your gums are no longer swollen. If this occurs, you must see a dentist promptly to treat gingivitis and prevent further complications. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and specific diet instructions to help you treat the infection. You may also have some of your teeth extracted if there is significant gum disease, as these infected areas can cause swelling in your gums and further complications. In some cases, you may have to have gum surgery to alleviate the swelling and facilitate healing. It is essential to keep your teeth clean, as bacteria can lead to gingivitis without proper oral care.
Gingivitis can be easily prevented with a healthy diet and proper dental care, such as regular flossing and visiting a dentist. Ensuring that your teeth are clean and you avoid eating foods that erode enamel will also keep your teeth healthy. If you have any existing dental problems, such as receding gums or a tooth close to your teeth' roots, it's best to see a dentist regularly. You must take preventative measures before gingivitis becomes more severe and causes pain and other health issues.
