What Should You Do If You Have Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is what we call the early form of gum disease. When it worsens, then it becomes periodontitis. Gingivitis can occur if plaque is left to build up on and around your teeth, ultimately irritating and infecting your gums. You may have gingivitis if you notice that your gums are tender, red, swollen, or bleeding. So, if you’re experiencing those symptoms what should you do?

See Your Dentist

Your first course of action should be to schedule an appointment with your dentist. That way they’ll be able to take a closer look at your gums and see how serious the infection is or not. The severity of your gum disease will determine what kind of treatment you need. Perhaps a deep cleaning called a scaling and root planing will do the trick. Maybe you need antibiotic treatment. In any case, the earlier you treat gingivitis, the better it is for your oral health!

Reassess Your Oral Hygiene Routine

While you’re waiting to see the dentist, take another look at your oral hygiene routine. Are you brushing twice a day? Are you flossing once a day? Are you using the proper technique for both? All of these are important for arresting gingivitis. You should be spending about two minutes total each time you brush your teeth, and when you floss you should be moving the thread slightly underneath your gums (but don’t force it!). You may also consider adding a mouthwash to your daily dental routine to help remove all the bad bacteria from your mouth.

Gum Health at Springhurst Hills Dentistry

If you think you might have gingivitis, contact Springhurst Hills Dentistry today. It’s important to act quickly so that the infection doesn’t worsen and require more serious treatment. You’ll be in good hands at our Louisville practice thanks to our experienced, compassionate team and our various patient amenities. All you have to do is sit back and relax as we look after your smile!

Posted on behalf of Dr. Lan Tran, Springhurst Hills Dentistry