Treatment is usually good oral hygiene, with periodic brushing, flossing and mouthwashes with antiseptic solutions. Some medicinal plants such as sage, myrrh and lemon are used as oral antiseptics.
It is advisable to visit the dentist regularly for cleaning and tartar removal. This prevents bacteria from building up and causing gingivitis.
Definition
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can be acute or chronic. Gingivitis occurs due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque.
The gingiva is formed by the soft tissue of the buccal mucosa around the bottom of the teeth (in the jawbone). Its surface is keratinized, which provides good protection against microbes.
Epidemiology
About 47% of Americans over 30 suffer from some form of gingivitis, according to the American magazine Prevention , February 2020, based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Causes
Gingivitis is caused by bacterial plaque. The latter consists of a film that is generally deposited on the surface of the teeth and gums.
The accumulation of bacterial plaque can lead to the formation of acids and toxins leading to the typical symptoms of gingivitis such as bleeding or redness.
The origin of the formation of bacterial plaque is mainly related to the lack of proper oral hygiene.
Other causes or factors that can lead to gingivitis are: hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or adolescence, as well as the use of certain medications (antidepressants, antiepileptics).
A lack of vitamin C (which leads to scurvy) can also cause your gums to bleed. However, this deficiency is very rare nowadays.
Untreated diabetes (eg type 1) can lead to gingivitis.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of gingivitis are:
– Signs of inflammation: redness of the gums (gums are usually quite red), edema (swelling) and possible pain.
– Bleeding after brushing or flossing.
In severe and advanced cases of gingivitis, a shift or loss of teeth may be observed. The interdental space can widen or narrow (this is known as periodontitis, a complication of gingivitis).
To avoid symptoms and complications, a regular visit to the dentist is indicated. He will especially look at the interdental spaces and the sources of germs that can lead to gingivitis.
Complications
Periodontitis can be a serious complication of gingivitis. Periodontitis is inflammation of the supporting tissues of the teeth. A consequence of this inflammatory process can cause a change in the position of the teeth causing, if not treated, permanent loss of teeth.
Treatments
The treatment of gingivitis is based mainly on improving oral hygiene: brushing your teeth regularly and using dental floss.
The dentist will also offer a complete treatment to remove tartar and thus prevent periodontitis, a complication of gingivitis.
In some rare situations, especially in the case of periodontitis or swelling of the gums, the dentist may perform a gingivectomy. It is a surgical procedure, which removes part of the gum.
Herbal medicine
It is possible to treat gingivitis by additional measures with herbal remedies, especially:
– Myrrh, in the form of a tincture .
– Sage, as a tincture .
Home remedies for gingivitis:
– Mouthwash against gingivitis , lemon juice .
Tips
Regularly check the condition of your gums. If you notice a change in color or volume of the gums, consult a dentist quickly.
Prevention
– Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth several times a day, floss at least once a day (in some cases of gingivitis, it is advisable to use it more than three times a day) and gargle with antiseptic solutions.
– Visit the dentist regularly. In fact, many people are unaware that they suffer from gingivitis.
– Do a regular dental cleaning. This helps reduce plaque and removes tartar.
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