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:

The symptoms of gingivitis can sometimes be alleviated by consuming herbal teas. However, not all teas are the same. The best choices if one's goal is to alleviate the symptoms of gum inflammation are myrrh, green, or echinacea tea. Certain consumers also add oils such as clover or caraway to the brew for an extra dose of anti-inflammatory properties.

Adding supplements to one's diet may be helpful in controlling the aforementioned condition. Recent research indicates that calcium, bioflavonoids, vitamin C and Coenzyme Q10 may have a positive effect on gum inflammation. Most supplements of this type can be purchased online or at a local grocery store or vitamin shop.

Recently, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved specific mouthwash solutions for the treatment of gingivitis. However, a prescription from a doctor or dentist is necessary before one can purchase such products. These mouthwashes work by forming a barrier on one's teeth that prevents plaque from adhering to their surface. A person's dentist can tell him or her whether such products are a good choice, depending on the patient's individual 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.

Following an anti-inflammatory diet is sometimes helpful with regard to alleviating the symptoms of the aforementioned disorder. Anti-inflammatory foods include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. In addition, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and spices such as garlic and ginger also have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is always wise to speak to a family doctor before beginning a new diet.

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.

An excellent way to prevent all types of gum disease is to schedule regular checkups and cleanings with a medical professional who can evaluate the condition of one's mouth. Such professionals are familiar with ways to treat gingivitis if it develops. Patients who think they may have this disorder or any other gum disease should seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner or dentist at once.




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