When dentists talk about Gingivitis, what they’re referring to is inflammation of the gums. This usually happens because of bacterial infections. Simply put, people often suffer gingivitis because of poor oral hygiene.
There can be significant negative health implications if this condition goes unchecked. Gingivitis can cause the gums to recede away from the teeth. And, it can lead to an even larger dental problem called periodontitis. Should gingivitis escalate into periodontitis, you could be facing tooth loss. To avoid going down this unhealthy road, let’s discuss what causes gingivitis in the first place and how to prevent it.
Causes
The gums are attached to the teeth near the bottom. In effect, they protect the roots of the tooth from coming into contact with things that could cause infection.
The gums are basically a kind of protective shield. However, failing to brush, floss and keep our teeth clean allows plaque to build up.
Plaque is a film of bacteria that can grow and harden into what is called tartar, if unchecked. This is one of the reasons regular dental cleanings are so important. When this reaches below the gumline, it can push the gums downward. This opens the space that the gums were shielding the tooth’s root. As infection hits, the root and soft tissue holding your teeth in place become unstable. Your teeth feel lose. Should infection attack the root, you could lose the tooth entirely. Think of your gums as a line of soldiers interlocking their shields. Plaque and tartar are the enemies trying to break through their defenses and win the battle. Proper oral hygiene gives your shield wall the strength to keep the enemy at bay.
Prevention
The best defense is a good offense when it comes to gingivitis. Here are a few basic things you can do to stop it before it gets started.
- Brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice per day
- Floss daily
- Schedule regular dental cleanings
- Use antibiotic mouthwashes
- Eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet
While these are foundational oral hygiene musts, some people are at greater risk of contracting gingivitis. They include those who:
- Smoke or chew tobacco
- Take medications such as steroids and oral contraceptives, among others
- Suffer from diabetes
- Are undergoing chemotherapy
- Have broken fillings or crooked teeth
- Are HIV positive
- Are pregnant
If you are a high risk person in terms of gingivitis, it’s important that you speak with a professional about a strategic prevention plan.
It’s imperative that everyone talks to their dentist about an oral hygiene plan that is best for the entire family. After all, prevention is the best cure for gingivitis and the health risks that it presents.
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