Decay-causing bacteria continually affect your teeth. When you don’t brush and floss, a sticky yellow film called plaque will form. This releases irritating toxins and contributes to oral health conditions like gingivitis. This condition is the precursor to gum disease, so it’s crucial to understand how you and your dentist can prevent it.

A Guide to Gingivitis

What Is It?

Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. Plaque collects along the gum line and causes swelling and inflammation. It then starts to make its way below the gum line and draws gum tissue away from the teeth.

Next comes the progressive stages of gum disease. The gum line recedes, the tissue becomes severely inflamed, and, in the most extreme cases, teeth can begin to fall out.

Symptoms

The gum tissue will appear puffy and dark red, especially along the gum line. While not painful, your gums may bleed every time you brush your floss. If your gum line begins to recede and expose more of each tooth, gingivitis is likely progressing into gum disease.

Treatment & Prevention

This condition is easy to control and treat. Most patients only need to improve their brushing and flossing habits to remove plaque along the gum line. Your dentist will recommend doing both of these activities twice a day and rinsing with an anti-inflammatory mouthwash. A dental hygienist will also perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque from the gum line and between your teeth.

Smoking and chewing tobacco drastically increase your chances of developing gingivitis, so ask your dentist about strategies to quit. You can also improve your diet to reduce plaque buildup. Cut down on sugary sodas and candies, starchy bread products, and acidic citrus.

Instead, drink plenty of water to rinse bacteria from your teeth and eat snacks like apples and broccoli that scrub plaque away from the gum line. Return to the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning.

If you’re overdue for a dental cleaning, contact Philmont Family Dentistry of New York. Dr. Tareq Khalifeh leads this practice and brings 25 years of experience to patients. This dentist uses cutting-edge treatments for both general and cosmetic dentistry needs. Call (518) 672-4077 to schedule an oral exam, or visit their website to learn more about the practice.