Tuesday, October 13, 2009

How do you cure gingivitis?

I have a small case of gingivitis, and I wanted to know what it took to get rid of or treat it. Thanks so much! (;
Answer:
Listerine and baking soda continuously at least twice a day
Brush your teeth at least 2-3 times daily using soft, circular strokes. Be sure to angle your toothbrush toward your gumline. Spend at least 2 minutes brushing each time. Floss at least once daily, making sure to go below the gumline a little, and pulling the floss to form a "c" around each tooth. You may notice bleeding for the first few days while brushing and flossing this way, but it will subside. The bleeding is due to the increased blood flow your body is providing to the area to rid your gums of the infection. When you've kept the bacterial plaque off of your teeth long enough for the tissue to heal, the bleeding will subside. In addition, brushing and flossing properly will "toughen up" the tissue a little. For soreness, rinse with warm salt water (1 tbs salt/1 cup warm water) a few times a day. Although Listerine and baking soda will kill bacteria, they should not be used more than once daily as they can cause tissue sloughing. Besides inadequate oral care, gingivitis can be a result of dry mouth due to medications or mouth breathing, hormone fluctuations caused by birth control meds or pregnancy, and medications that cause gingival hyperplasia-an overgrowth of gingival tissue. Good Luck!
Brush your teeth more frequently than recommended and rinse with a mixture of sea salt and warm water.
I usually recommend Listerine, but only after you have already brushed and flossed, two to three times a day. Gingivitis is caused by bacteria in the mouth and, when left untreated, causes Periodontis (the cause of bone loss, loose teeth and tooth loss in adults). It has been noted that patients with untreated Gingivitis and Periodontitis have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. So, treat it early! Best wishes in your fight against those little boogers.
Brush your teeth with a soft bristle brush and for 2 mins. Look up on how to brush correctly. Sounds silly but it helps. Floss daily doing a "c" up to the gumline and curving around the tooth. And booking an appt with the hygienist for a cleaning. Good luck!

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