Bleeding, red, and inflamed gums are hallmarks of gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis may advance into nonreversible periodontal disease where gums recede and can cause teeth to loosen. Here’s a closer look at how being proactive can reverse gingivitis symptoms and prevent them from worsening.

4 Dental Care Tips That Combat Gingivitis

1. Brush & Floss Daily

Clean your teeth gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day to remove food particles, bacteria, and dental plaque. Without regular removal, plaque hardens under the gumline into tartar that causes gum irritation and inflammation.

Brush for two minutes each time you clean your teeth, and floss at least once a day. Rub the floss gently between each tooth and make a “C” shape so that the filament gets below the gumline. Flossing removes food particles and bacteria your toothbrush can’t reach.

2. Don’t Smoke

Boost your oral health and overall immunity by quitting tobacco. A compromised immune system can’t heal as quickly from gum infections. Cigarette smoke, dipping, and chewing tobacco also irritate the gumline to cause bleeding, inflammation, and recession.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Focus on whole foods that help clean teeth and promote immunity. Refined sugars and simple carbohydrates, such as candy, starchy foods, and soda, are among the worst foods for gum health because they contribute to excessive plaque formation.

Alcohol interferes with dental care as well because it dries out the mouth to inhibit saliva production. Saliva contains enzymes that neutralize acids while also flushing food particles from the mouth.

4. See Your Dentist Regularly

Visit the dentist twice a year—or more often if a dentist recommends extra appointments to counteract gingivitis symptoms. Professional teeth cleanings remove plaque and tartar while checkups identify any oral health issues that need addressing. Your dentist will also recommend dental care products that help reverse gingivitis, such as fluoride toothpaste and antibacterial mouthwash options. 

Make an appointment with Nicholas J. Hurley D.D.S., P.A., to discuss a personalized gingivitis care plan. The Thomasville, NC, practice focuses on educating patients about dental care in addition to providing a wide range of dentistry services, including emergency assistance and root canals. Call (336) 476-1109 today to schedule a teeth cleaning or visit the dentist online for additional information about how they’ll help your smile.