Finding out you have gingivitis can be a little alarming and could easily catch you off guard. Since many of the early symptoms are subtle and painless, it’s usually a dental professional that discovers the problem. Treating this condition is a multi-step process but definitely one that you can handle.
Understanding the Diagnosis
The first thing we want you to know is that bleeding gums are never normal. When informing you that you have gingivitis, we are essentially diagnosing that there is an infection in the gums that surround the teeth. Without a doubt, this is a serious condition that can lead to years of costly dental work and bone loss. Millions of microscopic bacteria are fully capable of destroying your teeth.
Harnessing your power
Now take a deep breath and get excited because you are fully capable of turning this situation around starting today! Those nasty bacteria have got nothing on a highly motivated person and usually those bleeding gums will start to look and feel better within the week. What’s the goal? To live a longer and healthier life by removing those disease causing microorganisms that want to take over. That’s right, your mouth is full of blood vessels and veins that are connected like a superhighway to the rest of your body, and bacteria do love to travel.
The Four Step Process
1. Brush at Least Twice a Day
Although some of us are fantastic brushers with a traditional toothbrush, many people benefit from using a powered toothbrush. The two minute timer, small brush heads, and plaque destroying rotating or vibrating bristles make a big difference.
2. Floss Once Per Day
Take your time when you floss and try to reach below the gumline thoroughly where the worst germs like to hide. Although food removal is part of the process, be more concerned about breaking up bacterial colonies.
3. Have a Well Balanced Diet
A healthy body heals faster and the food we eat can make or break our body’s ability to ward off infection. Also, drinking plenty of water will give you great saliva which is key to healthy tissue.
4. Befriend Your Hygienist
By following a cleaning schedule that your hygienist recommends, you can be sure that tartar and plaque buildup don’t get out of control again. She might want to see you more often until the infection has settled down.
Knowing your limitations
Unfortunately not all of us have perfect health, so some of our recommendations for you may change based on your overall history. Medications and medical conditions can limit your body’s defenses and/or ability to ward off infection. Often times, we will suggest more frequent visits with the hygienist, special prescription rinses, or specific tools that help clean better in between your teeth.
In our recent blog post, we discussed the difference between gingivitis and periodontal disease. If you’ve been told that you only have gingivitis, the good news is you can now work hard to prevent the progression into bone destruction and tooth loss. Contact us now to schedule an appointment and treat your Gingivitis before it’s too late.