Say Goodbye to Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a disease within your mouth that causes inflammation of the gums. If you notice bleeding periodically, or the deterioration of the gums, you may want to consult a dentist for advice. Some of the symptoms include swollen or soft gums, bad breath, bleeding, and a darkening change of color. Gingivitis is a result of poor oral hygiene and will eventually worsen over the course of time. I have included my personal experience with the disease and a few recommendations below.

Firstly, if you have experienced the symptoms listed above it is likely there is an excessive build-up of bacteria in your mouth. This bacterium accumulates on the surface of your teeth and will eventually deteriorate the surrounding gingival tissue. Though there was no change in my oral hygiene, I first noticed the signs during my tour in Okinawa, Japan. I immediately consulted a naval doctor and scheduled for a teeth cleaning. In fact, I maintained my hygiene by brushing twice a day and cleansing afterwards with mouthwash; yet I still developed inflammation. After briefly discussing this with my doctor, he informed me that other risk factors may be due to lack of nutrients, dryness of the mouth, and tobacco use. Luckily, I do not smoke; however, my diet consisted of fast food and very few veggies and fruit. Apparently, this was the culprit.

After the cleaning I decided that my oral hygiene routine, along with my former diet, needed a change. Though you want to refrain from over-brushing your tissue right off your teeth, twice daily should suffice. Mouthwash daily will also aid in eliminating bacteria of the mouth. A new addition to my routine included flossing. The latter of bacteria infests between your teeth and in difficult places to reach while brushing; especially if food becomes lodged in tiny crevices. By flossing, you can ensure their removal. I also limited the amount of unhealthy food I consumed, and incorporated dark green vegetables and fruits in my meals at least once a day. I switched my toothpaste brand to a Biotene paste intended for dry mouths; as my mouth became exceedingly parched throughout the night.

To conclude, those who suspect gingivitis to be infecting their gums will opt for a proper cleaning before anything else. Once this is completed, ensure that you maintain adequate hygiene by introducing new cleaning methods such as mouthwash and flossing. An intake of vitamins and nutrition may also play a factor. Once gingivitis deteriorates the tissue that anchorage your teeth, it is unlikely to return and will eventually fall out. Ensure you are aware of the side affects of the disease and the proper methods of remedying it.

MayoClinic (2009). Gingivitis. Retrieved Nov 04, 2009 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gingivitis/DS00363