912-354-9541
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and it can have a serious impact on your overall oral health. Some of the earliest symptoms include red swollen gums or gums that bleed easily during regular brushing and flossing. In most cases gingivitis can be reversed through improvements in your daily oral hygiene regimen and visiting your dentist twice each year for your regular cleaning and checkup.
When brushing your teeth make sure to use a soft bristled tooth brush and abrasive toothpaste including fluoride. Make sure to focus on brushing all the exposed faces of each individual tooth. Flossing twice per day is also absolutely essential to reversing gingivitis.
You want to focus on flossing up along and into the gum line around each tooth. A piece of floss around 18 inches long should be enough for your entire mouth. Make sure to floss between the gums and the tooth in a U-shape. Larger teeth like molars might require two or three passes on both the front and back to thoroughly remove food particles and plaque.
Tartar buildup at the gum line is a key contributor to gingivitis and increases the likelihood of developing into periodontitis. Only your dentist can completely remove tartar buildup on your teeth, so be sure to stick to your twice yearly dental checkups.
If you are concerned that you might have developed gingivitis feel free to call us at 912-354-9541 to schedule an appointment.