Did you know that according to a recent CDC report, 47.2 percent of adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease? As you get older, your chances increase–70.5 percent of adults 65 or older have periodontal disease. 

Without treatment, your teeth will start to become wobbly and eventually fall out. Fortunately, gingivitis is the early stage of this disease when prevention and treatment are possible.  

If you’re experiencing signs, keep reading to learn simple ways to treat gingivitis today!  

What are the Signs of Gingivitis?   

You must schedule an appointment with your dentist if you suspect you have gingivitis. Here are a few signs:   

• Swollen and puffy gums  

• Red gums  

• Receding gums  

• Tender gums  

• Bad breath  

• Gums bleed easily when brushing or flossing  

Your chances of gingivitis heighten if you have a pattern of poor oral hygiene, smoking or chewing tobacco, genetics, dry mouth, older age, and more. Even hormonal changes or certain medications can increase your chances of gingivitis.   

This is why it’s crucial you focus on solutions rather than blaming and shaming yourself for the condition!   

How to Treat Gingivitis: Start Simple   

It’s essential to keep in mind that your oral health isn’t doomed if you experience signs of gingivitis. Instead, consider it a warning from your body to start taking care of your oral hygiene before things worsen.   

1. Schedule Regular Appointments   

If you haven’t seen your dentist in over a year, it’s time to schedule an appointment today. They’ll be able to give you customized tips on how to take care of your teeth and take care of gingivitis.   

Your dentist will also be able to monitor your progress during subsequent appointments so that you can be assured it’s not worsening.  

2. Use Fluoride or Antibacterial Mouth Rinses  

Fluoride is a natural mineral that’s one of the most critical ingredients in toothpaste. It helps strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities.   

By increasing the fluoride your teeth are exposed to, you can help strengthen them over time, so they’re more resistant to plaque that causes gingivitis.  

Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes before rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. This is because you don’t want to rinse off the fluoride on the toothpaste you just used.   

Your dentist may also prescribe you a chlorhexidine mouthwash to reduce the bacteria in your mouth. Recent studies have found that tea tree mouthwash gives you similar benefits.   

3. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day  

Did you know that you only need to brush your teeth for about four minutes each day? So morning and night, brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, or 30 seconds per quadrant of your mouth.   

The motion of your soft-bristled toothbrush combined with the fluoride in toothpaste will help reduce plaque. A reduction of plaque means reducing the chance of bacteria attacking your teeth and gums with harmful acids. 

4. Floss Every Day  

Flossing is a habit that many people failed to develop when they were children, making it even harder to pick up as an adult. Keep in mind that flossing at least once a day before you go to bed is all you need to do to increase your dental health.   

You can use water picks, dental tape, pre-threaded floss, or interdental picks to make your life easier. You can also opt to floss one section of your mouth in the morning and one at night to speed up the process!   

Take Time to Treat Gingivitis Today  

It’s essential to keep in mind that ignoring the signs of gingivitis won’t make them go away. Over time, your condition will worsen. Before this happens, make sure you start treating your gingivitis and enhance your oral health habits by going to the dentist, brushing twice a day, using oral rinses, and flossing.   

Not only will you find relief from the pain and discomfort of your gums, but you can also develop a renewed confidence in your smile.   

Ready to take charge of your dental health? Schedule an appointment with us today!