Detecting and treating the issue early can save you a lot of time, worry and money in the future. If you have severe gum disease, you’ll usually need to have further medical and dental treatment and, in some cases, surgery may need to be carried out. This will usually be performed by a specialist in gum problems (periodontics). Antibacterial mouthwash not only prevents gingivitis, it fights bad breath and plaque. Antibacterial rinses can reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease, according to the American Dental Association.
In rare cases, ANUG can lead to gangrene affecting the lips and cheeks. If you develop gangrene, you may need to have the dead tissue removed. You should always read the instructions before using mouthwash. Some types may need to be diluted in water before they’re taken.
Gingivitis is one of the most common diseases that affect the gums. It is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. The main cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene, which leads to the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can harden into tartar if not removed through regular brushing and flossing.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
It starts with mild swelling and redness of the gums and can lead to bone damage and tooth loss. Gums are the tissues that surround your teeth and hold them in place. Your dentist might call it periodontal disease or periodontitis. NIDDK conducts and supports clinical trials in many diseases and conditions, including diabetes. The trials look to find new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease and improve quality of life.
Here, learn what causes gum disease, how it’s treated and how to prevent it. Gum disease can lead to bone loss around the tooth root. A bone graft involves placing natural or synthetic bone to stimulate regrowth where the bone is lost. Routine dental visits can help find early signs of gum disease. Gum recession is the loss of gum tissue from around the tooth, exposing the root. Measurements are taken along the outer surface of the tooth to gauge how much the gum has recessed over time.
Pop something spicy or very sour in your mouth and your taste buds react by telling your body to make more saliva. Acidic foods tend to trigger a lot more saliva than sweet foods. If dry mouth persists, your doctor or dentist may recommend rinsing your mouth with artificial saliva.
However, this is very unlikely if you’re only doing oral sex. The plate method helps you control portion sizes without counting and measuring. This method divides a 9-inch plate into the following three sections to help you choose the types and amounts of foods to eat for each meal.
Some common symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums. Gums may also bleed easily, especially while brushing or flossing. Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also be signs of gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Prevention and Treatment
The good news is that gingivitis is preventable and treatable. Practicing good oral hygiene is key to preventing gingivitis. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. If you are diagnosed with gingivitis, your dentist may recommend professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. In some cases, antibiotics or other treatments may be prescribed to help reduce gum inflammation.
