Most people are familiar with gingivitis or at least have heard of it and know that it has to do with their teeth. And anyone who has been to a Dentist has been warned about the seriousness of this condition.
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque on the teeth, leading to painful red and puffy gums that bleed when you brush your teeth. In addition to red, puffy, bleeding gums, symptoms of gingivitis can include persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, receding gums and changes in the way your teeth come together when biting down.
In some cases of gingivitis, the symptoms are mild and you may not even know you have it until it is too late. If left untreated, though, gingivitis can spread and affect tissue, teeth and bones, leading to periodontitis that can eventually result in the loss of your teeth and may even increase the risk of conditions involving the heart.
To prevent gingivitis from developing, thoroughly brush your teeth a minimum of two minutes at least twice a day everyday and be sure you brush right before you go to bed. In conjunction with brushing, floss your teeth twice a day to remove food particles that can get trapped between your teeth and gargle with a good medicinal mouthwash to eliminate bacteria that can cause bad breath.
The final and probably the most important step in preventing gingivitis is to visit your Dentist at least twice a year. During these visits your Dentist can check your teeth for early signs of gingivitis and take steps to stop the progression of the condition and your teeth are cleaned to remove plaque and tartar build-up that lead to gingivitis.
The dental professionals at Lansdowne West Dental at 1524 Lansdowne Street West can advise you on good oral hygiene practices so you can prevent gingivitis. To arrange an appointment, call 705-742-9999 or email them at dentist@nexicom.net. For more information visit their web site www.lansdownewestdental.com.