Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, can lead to a serious condition called periodontal disease. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. Symptoms of gingivitis may include swollen gums, bad breath, receding gums, tender gums, dusky red or dark red gums and gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss your teeth.
Gingivitis is common. Older age, dry mouth, using tobacco, poor nutrition, poor oral care habits, genetics, medical conditions, certain drugs, hormonal changes and conditions that decrease your immune system’s ability to fight infections are factors that can increase your risk of developing gingivitis. Read on to learn about five ways you can treat gingivitis.
Use a Salt Water Rinse to treat Gingivitis
A 2016 study showed that using a salt water rinse could be beneficial to healing gums suffering from gingivitis. Salt helps heal your body because it’s a natural disinfectant. A salt water rinse may reduce pain, soothe inflamed gums, reduce bacteria, relieve bad breath and remove particles of food.
If you choose to use a salt water rinse, don’t leave the solution in your mouth for more than 30 seconds and don’t use it more than three times per day. A salt water rinse shouldn’t be used for long-term treatment.
Brush Your Teeth Effectively
You should brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. You may want to consider purchasing an electric toothbrush because it cleans your teeth better compared to a manual toothbrush. Make sure to brush your gums.
Floss Daily
Flossing will remove food particles that your toothbrush isn’t able to reach. Food particles can cause additional plaque to form. Ask your dentist how you can floss your teeth effectively to treat gingivitis.
Tea Tree Oil Mouthwash
According to a 2014 study, using tea tree oil as a mouthwash can significantly reduce bleeding caused by gingivitis.
Add three drops of tea tree oil to warm water before use. Don’t leave the solution in your mouth for more than 30 seconds and don’t use it more than three times per day. When you use tea tree oil for the first time, make sure that it’s highly diluted. High concentrations can cause allergic reactions, rashes and burning. Tea tree oil can cause interactions with certain drugs, herbs and dietary supplements. Talk with your dentist before use.
Sage Mouthwash
A 2015 study showed that sage mouthwash significantly reduced the number of bacteria that cause dental plaque. Sage mouthwash may help heal swollen gums and treat infection.
First, boil two cups of water and add two tablespoons of fresh sage or one teaspoon of dried sage. After it has simmered for 10 minutes, strain it and let the water cool. Don’t use the mouthwash more than three times per day.
Visit South Tulsa Dental
If you treat gingivitis quickly, you’ll likely make a full recovery. Tooth loss and periodontal disease can occur if you leave the disease untreated. You should make an appointment with South Tulsa Dental immediately if you experience severe tooth pain, excessive bleeding of the gums or extremely swollen or inflamed gums.
Getting your teeth professional cleaned is the best treatment for gingivitis. Your hygienist will be able to remove significantly more plaque than you can. Finally, ask your dentist if you’re brushing and flossing your teeth properly.
If you have questions about dentistry in the Tulsa area call South Tulsa Dental today at (918) 628-0834.
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