What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. Bacteria live in a thin, sticky film called plaque. Plaque coats the surface of the teeth and acts on carbohydrates in foods. Plaque eventually hardens into tartar (hard mineral shell) that erode healthy gum tissue. If ignored, gingivitis can lead to pyorrhea, which is the main cause of tooth loss in adults.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
- During brushing gums may bleed.
- Tenderness, redness and swelling in the gums.
- Bad taste and chronic bad breathe.
Causes of Gingivitis
- Lifestyle factors, genetic susceptibility, decrease in saliva production, hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation and menopause are factors that promote gingivitis.
- Chemicals in tobacco and diet rich in sugar are harmful to gums and teeth.
- Diabetes, Aids and other chronic disease can also have adverse effects..
Home remedies for Gingivitis
- Brush your teeth at-least twice a day with a brush that has soft nylon-bristles. Focus on the gum-line with back-and-forth gentle scrub.
- Bacteria, accumulates on the tongue also, so brush your tongue.
- Floss your teeth and gums every time you brush your teeth.
Preventing Gingivitis
- Have regular dental check-ups and maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.