Gingivitis: what it is and how to cure it?

Your oral health is not only about teeth: beware of gingivitis.

Have you already lost some time to inspect your gums? Are they red and soft? Do they seem swollen? Do they bleed when you brush your teeth? You probably have gingivitis, but do not panic. In most cases, it is an easily treatable condition.

Gingivitis or gum disease, is an infection with bacterial etiology, due to the concentration of tartar, usually caused by poor oral hygiene or by food stuck between your gums and teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, as well as flossing and gargling with an appropriate mouth rinse is what you should do to keep gingivitis away from you. But if you have contracted this infection, there are several things you can do to make this bacterial concentration disappear.

The first step is to brush your teeth more often, paying greater attention to the infected areas. The gums will probably bleed, but it’s normal. If the problem persists, consult a pharmacist who will suggest an antibacterial mouth rinse or even a gel that you can apply directly in the gums. Alternatively, and even more recommendable, see a dentist. He may propose a much more viable treatment at the moment, from very simple to the more invasive, such as: removal of tartar, plaque, from the teeth, gums cleanse and gingival surgery, curettage, or dental reconstruction.

If not treated in time, gingivitis can become a problem far more complicated than a simple oral infection. Several institutes like the US Center for Disease Prevention and Control and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research have agreed that gingivitis is one the factors responsible for enhancing the chances of developing diabetes, heart disease and lung complications.