Understanding How To Treat Gingivitis

By Lela Perkins


Gingivitis is experienced by 3 out of 4 individuals aged thirty-five or older. It is a gum disease characterized by bad breath, bleeding gums, and red or irritated tissue. Fortunately, in most cases it can be prevented or reversed when it is caught early. Caring for one's teeth properly is one of the best ways to prevent this condition. The following are several ways to treat gingivitis if it develops:

Consuming herbal tea can assist one to minimize the symptoms of the aforementioned disease. However, there is a wide variety of teas available, and one should choose echinacea, myrrh, or green tea if the objective is to soothe an inflamed gumline. Certain people also add clove oil or caraway oil to such teas for additional anti-inflammatory benefits.

Gingivitis can also be controlled to some degree by adding supplements to one's diet. Recent studies have found that vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, calcium, and bioflavonoids contain properties that may positively affect gum inflammation. Vitamin shops and local grocery stores typically carry such supplements, or they can be purchased online.

Recently, the US FDA approved certain types of mouthwash solutions for those suffering from gingivitis. However, a doctor or dentist must write a prescription before one can obtain such formulas. Mouthwashes of this type work by creating a barrier on the person's teeth that prevents the buildup of plaque. The patient's dentist can inform him or her whether or not the use of such products are wise course of action, and this will largely depend on the individual's symptoms.

A dentist may also recommend topical steroids for certain cases of gingivitis. Typically, such medications are not prescribed unless the inflammation is severe. However, moderate cases are sometimes treated with such ointments as well. Symptoms usually clear up within thirty days of using topical steroids. Oral steroids may also be prescribed when all other treatments fail.

Certain individuals have found an anti-inflammatory diet helpful with regard to the treatment of gingivitis symptoms. Anti-inflammatory fare includes cauliflower, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables. Additionally, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and seasonings such as ginger and garlic also contain properties that have an anti-inflammatory effect. However, before starting any new diet, it is wise to speak to one's family doctor.

Those who want to prevent diseases of the gums should floss regularly. This is because one's risk of developing the disease increases when plaque is allowed to build up on his or her teeth and gums. Ideally, daily flossing is recommended, but to lower one's risk even further, he or she should floss twice a day.

Scheduling regular checkups and cleanings with an experienced dentist is one of the best ways to prevent diseases of the gum. Such professionals can evaluate one's teeth and gums and screen the person for problems. They also know how to treat gingivitis if this disease develops. Any person who suspects that he or she may have this condition or any other gum disease should make an appointment with a medical doctor or dentist as soon as possible.




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