Gingivitis Treatment in Miami, FL
We often focus so much on keeping our teeth healthy that we sometimes forget that problems can impact the health of our gums, as well. While gums can get puffy or irritated from time to time, if you notice these symptoms lingering for days or even weeks this could be your mouth’s way of telling you that you could have gingivitis. Fortunately, this early stage of gum disease can be reversed when detected and treated by our Miami, FL, dental team right away.
What Is Gingivitis?
Whenever we eat something, a clear sticky substance known as plaque develops and sticks to our teeth and the gums. Of course, plaque can easily be removed through proper brushing and flossing; however, if you don’t have good oral hygiene plaque will continue to remain on teeth and gums.
Within plaque is bacteria that produce toxins that cause inflammation in the gums. While brushing is the best way to remove plaque from teeth, flossing every day is critical if you want to keep plaque away from the gums. Around 75 percent of Americans will develop gingivitis during their lifetime; however, by visiting our dentists regularly and properly caring for your smile, you can reverse gingivitis.
How Is Gingivitis Treated?
Since gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, many people with it don’t even know they have it. This is why it’s so important that you don’t skip out on those six-month checkups. If it’s been more than six months since you last saw the dentist, it’s time to schedule a cleaning.
Of course, as gingivitis develops you may notice red, tender, and puffy gums that may bleed when flossing and brushing. If you notice any changes to your gums, it’s time to see us. Gingivitis is easily treatable with proper oral care and through early interventions provided by our periodontal team. Gingivitis can be treated through:
- Using an anti-gingivitis oral rinse and toothpaste
- Brushing between each meal or snack for at least two minutes each time
- Flossing at least once a day
- Switching to an electric toothbrush
- Following up regularly with your dentist
- Eating a healthy diet and cutting back on sugar
- Receive scaling and root planing treatment from our periodontist