When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, you may have heard of gingivitis, but what is gingivitis exactly? This common condition is actually the earliest stage of gum disease, and it’s something that many people will experience at some point. Luckily, with proper care and periodontal services at Austin Laser Dentist, you can treat and prevent gingivitis.
If your gums are sore, inflamed, or bleed easily, don’t ignore it. These are all signs of gum disease, which requires professional treatment. Get the care you need with periodontal services at Austin Laser Dentist. Call our Austin, TX, clinic at (512) 346-4690 for scheduling now!
But first, let’s dive deeper into what gingivitis is and how you can keep your gums in great shape.
What Is Gingivitis and How Common Is It?
So, what is gingivitis? Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue, usually caused by the buildup of plaque around teeth.
Ok, but what is plaque? Well, plaque is a gummy accumulation of bacteria and food that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If it’s not removed by brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum irritation. This irritation causes redness, swelling, and even bleeding, especially when you brush your teeth.
You’re not alone if you’ve ever dealt with gingivitis—it’s incredibly common! In fact, nearly half of all adults experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime, with gingivitis being the mildest form. The good news? Gingivitis is totally treatable and even reversible if caught early.
What Can You Do About Gingivitis?
If you’re wondering what you can do to tackle gingivitis, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to get your gums back in shape. First, prioritize twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and have a floss session at least once a day. Flossing is especially important because it helps remove the plaque that toothbrushes can’t.
Professional cleanings are also key in fighting gingivitis. Our Austin, TX, dentist and hygienists use specialized tools to remove built-up plaque and tartar during routine cleanings. If you need more targeted care, periodontal services (like scaling and root planing) might be ideal to give your gums the attention they need.
How to Prevent Gingivitis
Now that you know what gingivitis is, let’s talk about prevention. The best way to keep gingivitis at bay is with good oral hygiene habits. Never skip brushing and flossing, and attend twice-yearly dental check-ups and cleanings.
You can also boost your gum health by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals – especially vitamin C, which helps support healthy gums.
Drinking the recommended amount of water daily helps, too! Water clears food particles and gingivitis-causing bacteria away, keeping the teeth and gums moist and clean. And if you use tobacco products, consider quitting, since tobacco use is a major risk factor for developing gum disease.
Treat Gingivitis with Laser Dentistry in Austin, TX
So, what is gingivitis? It’s a common, mild form of gum disease that can cause gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. While gingivitis is common, it’s also preventable and treatable with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to Austin Laser Dentist.
If you think you have gingivitis, don’t hesitate to seek periodontal services with Dr. Helen Ragsdale. Request an appointment here or call (512) 346-4690 for information and scheduling now!
