If a dental professional has recently diagnosed you with gingivitis, you shouldn't be afraid! Fortunately, the condition is very treatable. Gingivitis is a gum disease that consists of red, swollen gums that easily bleed when brushing or flossing. The next step after finding out you have it is treating it. It's essential to do so it doesn't progress into periodontitis. Treating gingivitis takes a little time, love, and care. With proper technique and products, happy and healthy gums will be your next diagnosis. Finding the right toothpaste with germ-fighting ingredients and incorporating a daily routine is key to success.
What Is The Best Toothpaste For Gingivitis?
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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by bacteria that's built up around your gumline and has turned into plaque (a soft, sticky, colorless film). According to the Journal of Dental Research, nearly half of adults over 30 in the US ( 47.1 percent to be exact) have some form of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis.
A Germ Fighting Toothpaste
Fighting gingivitis begins with daily brushing and finding a toothpaste containing fluoride and other gum strengthening ingredients. Focusing on a toothpaste that not only fights plaque but also strengthens gums, breaks down build-up, and remineralizes tooth enamel will help bring your gums back to optimal health. Stannous fluoride in toothpaste helps eliminate the bacteria and plaque that cause gingivitis.
Your dentist or dental hygienist will give instructions on proper home oral routine, but at the very minimum, follow these guidelines:
- Arm yourself with a soft-bristled toothbrush that's small enough for those back molars
- Add your trusted bacteria-fighting toothpaste to your brush.
- Brush at a 45° angle against the gumline
- Gently scrub back and forth on each tooth.
- Brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes at a time
- After getting all your teeth, brush your tongue as well.
Complete Oral Care for Gingivitis
Brushing is step one. But daily cleaning between your teeth and using an antiseptic mouthwash will also help eliminate the plaque and bacteria that cause gingivitis. Regular preventive care is essential to treat and reverse the condition. Seeing your dentist regularly and scheduling professional cleanings at least twice a year will help keep your teeth clean and healthy. Your dentist will help remove any build-up that you couldn't with regular brushing and flossing (calculus) and recommend other treatments if necessary.
Your gingivitis cure begins with taking ownership of your oral health. Finding the right toothpaste and implementing these healthy habits will cure this condition and prevent other more severe conditions.
